Bruno the Anaheim Police K-9 shot during 2014 manhunt, dies
ANAHEIM, Calif. (FOX 11) - A retired Anaheim K-9 police dog shot in the line of duty two years ago died Wednesday morning.
Bruno was taken to Yorba Regional Anaheim Hospital Saturday afternoon when he suffered complications related to the injuries from the March 20, 2014, shooting, according to Anaheim police Sgt. Daron Wyatt.
The German shepherd underwent emergency surgery Saturday night, Wyatt said. The dog's organs began failing early today and he had to be put down, Wyatt said.
The Friends of the Anaheim Police Canine Association posted about Bruno on its Facebook page: "It's with heavy hearts we announce the passing of K9 Bruno. Bruno was a warrior to the end and we will never forget OUR HERO!
Rest well 26K2; we know you will be vigilantly watching over RJ and the rest of us from Heaven."
Bruno was wounded as he assisted SWAT officers searching for a gunman who reportedly had shot at probation officers. The suspect, later identified as Robert Moreno Jr., 21, shot the dog in the jaw and chest before he was fatally shot by authorities.
Bruno was treated at Yorba Regional Anaheim Hospital for a collapsed lung and other injuries.
The dog became "somewhat of a folk hero'' following the shooting, Wyatt said.
Bruno, a six-year department veteran, was retired a month after the shooting. He was living with his former handler, Office R.J. Young and his family, Wyatt said.
The City Of Anaheim posted to their official website on Wednesday: "Bruno became somewhat of a folk hero following his shooting and recovery and has made guest appearances on a number of television programs. He is the subject of a children's book, The Adventures of Bruno and Grace, written by Officer Young's wife."
Bruno was scheduled to be the Grand Marshal of the America Rides event in Anaheim on Saturday.
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