Necropsy Determines Brookland Police K-9 BOLO Died From Bloat
BROOKLAND, Ark. — The Brookland Police Department is mourning the death of K-9 Officer BOLO, who was found dead Saturday morning at the home of his handler, a news release said.
BOLO was discovered in his kennel at approximately 10:30 a.m. July 18, according to a news release from Police Chief Jon Moore. Police said there was no obvious indication of what caused his death.
BOLO was assigned to Officer Cody Ladner, who last saw the dog at approximately 2 a.m. after completing his shift, authorities said.
Earlier that night, BOLO and Ladner had been traveling on Arkansas 49 when Ladner heard a loud boom from his patrol vehicle, according to the release. The vehicle began smoking as though it were on fire, prompting Ladner to pull over and immediately remove himself and BOLO.
Another patrol vehicle was called to the scene to secure BOLO. Police said the dog appeared excited but otherwise seemed fine.
BOLO was taken home because the patrol vehicle Ladner would have used to complete his shift was also experiencing mechanical problems. When Ladner finished his shift around 2 a.m., he checked BOLO’s water as part of his usual routine. Police said that was his final interaction with the dog before BOLO was found dead later that morning.
The Greene County Sheriff’s Office responded to investigate. A necropsy determined that BOLO died from gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, according to Sheriff Brad Snyder.
An investigator transported BOLO’s body Monday morning to the Arkansas Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Little Rock. Dr. Denise Apperson completed the necropsy Monday afternoon, Snyder said.
Greene County sheriff’s deputies responded July 18 after BOLO was found dead at the residence of his handler. Investigators reported finding no visible injuries or other evidence at the scene indicating foul play, according to Snyder.
Snyder said BOLO’s death was determined to be from natural causes and that the investigation has been closed.
BOLO was described by the department as physically fit, energetic and imposing in appearance but sweet-natured away from work.
“When it came to work, he was all business and was always ready,” the department said. “He was a great asset to this department and will truly be missed by us all.”
Police said BOLO shared a special bond with Ladner and was cared for by Ladner and his family.
Additional information will be released when it becomes available.
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