MARION COUNTY, Fla. – A Marion County K-9 wounded in a shootout between a man and deputies on Saturday has died, the sheriff’s office said.
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On Monday, officials said K-9 Leo was in stable but critical condition at University of Florida Veterinary Hospital; however, on Tuesday they posted an update saying in part that his “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.”’
Sheriff Billy Woods posted a video update on social media updating the community on Leo’s passing.
“This evil person shot K-9 Leo as Leo was responding to protect his handler and the other deputies. Leo did exactly what he was trained to do and that is to fearlessly defend and protect those deputies — to charge directly at danger,” Woods said.
Deputies responded to the 900 block of NE 144th Court, near Silver Springs for a call of battery by strangulation, according to a news release.
Jeremy Bradsher, 44, was located in the backyard and opened fire on the deputies, injuring Leo, according to the sheriff’s office.
The sheriff’s office said deputies returned fire and soon apprehended the Bradsher. He was pronounced dead after being taken to a hospital.
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