Spike, a beloved Burbank police K-9, has lost his life following a tragic series of events that started with what appeared to be a routine traffic stop.
The police stopped a car on Saturday night because of its dark window tint. The driver cooperated, but the passenger suddenly bolted out, leaping down a nearby slope and disappearing into thick bushes.
A helicopter and officers searched the area until finally Spike located the man. While Spike was trying to alert officers to the suspect’s location, the man opened fire critically injuring the K-9 before fleeing once again.
The police finally traced the man and spent more than three hours trying to calm him down, talking both in English and Spanish. However, the standoff ended violently when he fired into officers’ vehicles. The encounter ended with the suspect also losing his life.
Spike had worn his protective vest, but the wounds had proved too severe.
The department continued to pour out heartfelt tributes to the 4-year-old K-9, describing him as a loyal partner who has time and again placed officer and public safety before his own. In his almost two years of service, Spike gained familiarity at public events through greeting families, comforting children, and leaving joy wherever he went.
The police department appreciated the bravery, commitment, and joy that he had brought into the life of everyone around him. Rest in peace, Spike.
