SAN DIEGO—Officers killed a suspect who shot and killed a police dog Aug. 2 near Mesa College in Clairemont.
“A violent shooting suspect killed one of our K9 dogs this morning. Our dog saved the lives of the officers and citizens in the area. RIP,” the San Diego Police Officers Association posted on social media Wednesday morning. “The suspect is no longer a threat and the officers and innocent victims of the shooting are uninjured.”
At 2:07 a.m. Wednesday, a man was reportedly shot at on Ben Street, according to 1904 News, a video news service. The victim gave police a partial license plate number and a San Diego Police Department (SDPD) helicopter found the suspect near the college.
The suspect got out of the vehicle with a gun under his arms, the news service said. He was not compliant with officers and a K9 was sent in to subdue the suspect, who then shot the dog. Officers opened fire on the suspect. It was not immediately known how many officers fired their weapons or how many shots were fired.
The dog, named Sir, was taken to a veterinary hospital in serious condition and later died.
“I’m saddened to share the news about the tragic loss of K9, Sir. He was a cherished member of our family. You'll be missed,” SDPD Chief David Nisleit wrote on X (fka Twitter).
Another police dog was sent in and the suspect was apprehended. The man was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His name was not immediately released.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department was investigating the shooting, per policy.
“A 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, K9 Sir joined our ranks in March 2022, showing courage, commitment, and dedication in every situation he faced. He was a beloved member of our department and community,” the SDPD wrote on X. “This marks the second loss of a police canine in the line of duty—a somber reminder of the risks faced by all our officers, both two and four-legged. Together, we will remember K9 Sir, celebrate his life, and honor his heroic service.”
Mesa College President Ashanti Hands issued the following statement after the shooting: “Currently, there is no indication that anyone from the college was involved. All regular work, classes, services, and activities are expected to continue today. The campus is secure and people should report to work as usual. A police investigation is currently underway and lots 1, 2, and 3 will be closed until further notice, as will Mesa College Circle near the athletics fields.”
Hands said college police will be directing people to park in other locations and parking enforcement will be suspended Wednesday. The lower campus will be accessible via the Genesee Avenue Marlesta Drive entrance.
For additional information on campus parking and access, contact College Police Dispatch at 619-388-6405.
