A police dog from Kansas City, Missouri, was killed along with an officer during a car crash earlier this week.
Police Dog Dies in Car Accident
A 3-year-old Dutch Shepherd named Champ, and his partner, 42-year-old Officer James Muhlbauer, were on patrol on Wednesday night when a driver crashed into their patrol vehicle near the intersection of Truman Rd. and Benton Blvd. shortly after 10:15 p.m.
A 50-year-old male pedestrian died on the scene, as did the dog. Muhlbauer was rushed to a hospital to receive treatment for life-threatening injuries, but doctors were unable to save him and he soon passed away.
Champ’s remains were transported to the hospital so he and his partner could have a “heroes’ escort,” according to Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves.
“You live with your dog, your partner, your family lives with your partner,” she said. “You go to work every day. You train every day. You literally eat, sleep and live with your partner. They’re more than just a dog. They are truly the best partners they can have.”
Community in Mourning
Muhlbauer was a 20-year veteran of KCPD. He served his last three years in the K-9 Unit. Champ joined the force a year ago. The pup lived with the officer, who was married and a father.
“KCPD asks the public to pray for Muhlbauer’s family and to give them privacy,” a KCPD press release said.
The driver who hit the victims survived the ordeal with minor injuries but was taken into custody. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, including whether or not the driver was under the influence, but Graves indicated Muhlbauer was not at fault.
“Our department is hurting, we’re sad and we’re shaken,” she said.
A patrol vehicle is parked in front of Police Headquarters at 1125 Locust St. in honor of Muhlbauer and Champ. The public is invited to place flowers there in their memory.
“KCPD thanks everyone, fellow law enforcement agencies and elected officials included, for their condolences and assistance during this difficult time,” the press release stated.
