SILVER SPRINGS, Fla. — A Marion County deputy K-9 who was shot in the line of duty Saturday morning while "fearlessly serving to protect" the community has died, the Marion County Sheriff's Office announced on Tuesday.
"Citizens, first of all, I want to thank you for the overwhelming support, prayers, and encouragement during this difficult time," a Facebook post from the sheriff's office begins. "Over the last few days, Leo maintained that fighting spirit.
"However, Leo's injuries were too severe to overcome this morning, and his passing will be felt by all of us here in my office and in our community."
At about 9 a.m. Saturday, deputies were responding to a call in Silver Springs, Fla. for a person accused of strangling someone, the sheriff's office explained. When the responding deputies found the man in the backyard of a home, he started shooting toward them.
That's when K-9 Leo was hit.
Leo was rushed to UF Veterinary Hospital "where their dedicated team is doing everything possible to save him." The sheriff's office previously said it was holding onto hope and praying for his recovery.
In the following days, the sheriff's office issued updates on social media on Leo's condition. For a brief time, his condition had improved. The agency said that his vitals were good and that his handler, K-0 Cpl. Tortora, had been "by his side through it all."
"Leo isn't just a member of our force; he's family. His loyalty, courage, and unwavering dedication to his duty embody the very essence of what it means to serve and protect. His sacrifice today reminds us of the dangers our deputies face each day to keep our community safe," the sheriff's office said.
The agency is now asking for the support of the community, asking people to send love and prayers to Leo and his handler.
"Most of you do not know the unique bond that develops between the law enforcement K9 and their handler. That bond is what binds them to some extraordinary levels of loyalty, love, and unwavering determination," the sheriff's office wrote.
The Marion County Sheriff's Office said that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigating the shooting and more information is expected as the investigation unfolds.
Silver Springs in Marion County is 104 miles northeast of Tampa between Gainesville and Orlando.
