Rocky, Houston Police Dog and National Hero After Surviving Gunfire From a Murder Suspect
Rocky, a police dog from Houston, played a pivotal role in locating the suspect in the murder of a deputy sheriff on Wednesday.
During a manhunt to capture the suspect responsible for the murder of a deputy sheriff in Houston, the brave canine officer was critically injured. His dramatic rescue, captured on video, has been shared millions of times across the United States.
Relying on his keen sense of smell, Rocky followed the trail to its source. When he finally discovered the suspect’s hiding spot, he fearlessly attempted to apprehend the individual, only to be shot in the process. Since yesterday, Rocky's incredible story has captivated the nation.
Rocky and his team had been tirelessly pursuing the suspect for hours. The man, identified as Robert Lee Davis, was wanted for the murder of Jesus Vargas, a deputy sheriff in Brazoria County, who had been fatally shot during a routine traffic stop earlier that morning.
Suspect Found Hiding in a Dumpster
At approximately 11:30 a.m., Robert Lee Davis fired from his vehicle at two officers conducting a stop. Deputy Sheriff Vargas was struck and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. A city-wide manhunt ensued, lasting several hours, as authorities worked to locate the suspected killer.
It was Rocky’s exceptional tracking abilities that led officers to the suspect, who had taken cover in a dumpster. As Rocky began to search through the trash, Davis fired two shots at the brave K-9 officer. Over the police radio, a heart-wrenching cry was heard: "He killed the dog." Officers immediately returned fire, fatally wounding the suspect.
Rocky Critically Injured but Alive
Rocky was quickly carried to safety by a police officer, surrounded by his team. A reporter from local media outlet KHOU captured a video of Rocky being escorted to a helicopter dispatched specifically for his rescue.
Despite his critical injuries, Rocky survived the attack and, as of Thursday, is in stable condition. "We lost a hero today. We almost lost two," said Prosecutor Sean Teare following the incident. "These dogs are an integral part of our police force," he added.
Across the country, Rocky has been celebrated as a true national hero.
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