In a distressing turn of events, a police dog named Hawk, a Belgian Malinois, was fatally shot after seriously injuring its handler, Deputy Marshal John Coby, at the Tombstone Marshal’s Office in Cochise County, Arizona. The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, November 19.
According to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), Deputy Marshal Coby was working the night shift with his two-and-a-half-year-old K-9 partner when the attack happened shortly after 5:00 AM. Hawk reportedly latched onto Coby’s leg and refused to let go, resulting in significant injuries to Coby’s ankle and leg.
Despite efforts to subdue the situation, including retreating to a bathroom to escape, the dog continued its aggressive behavior. Left with no other choice to ensure his safety, Coby was compelled to use his service weapon on Hawk, ultimately leading to the dog’s death.
Deputy Marshal Coby required emergency medical attention following the incident and was airlifted to a hospital in Tucson. He was treated for his injuries and released the same evening.
The CCSO has classified the incident as an “officer-involved shooting” and has initiated a thorough investigation while Coby remains on medical leave. A necropsy is planned for Hawk to determine any underlying causes that might have triggered such unexpected aggression. Additionally, the CCSO will conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand the details of the event fully.
Marshal Jim Adams expressed deep regret over the incident, emphasizing the valued role K-9 partners play in law enforcement. He stated, “The Tombstone Marshal’s Office loves and appreciates our K-9 partners, not only because of the incredible work they do to keep illicit drugs off our streets but because they are valued members of our law enforcement family.”
Adams also highlighted the profound impact of Hawk’s loss on the agency and assured that the investigation would be handled with utmost professionalism and objectivity by the CCSO.
Following the conclusion of the necropsy, Hawk’s ashes will be returned to the Tombstone Marshal’s Office, where they will be interred, marking a solemn closure to a profoundly unfortunate event.
