The Oakland County Sheriff's Office in Michigan is mourning the loss of a beloved K-9 after its unexpected death, according to a statement.
Riggs, a two-year-old Dutch Shepherd, and his handler, Deputy Harvey Wilson, were on duty at the Meadow Brook Amphitheatre on Oakland University’s campus last week when the dog suffered a heart attack.
Riggs died in Deputy Wilson’s arms.
Veterinarians at Michigan State University who performed a necropsy said because the young pup had been in excellent condition, a fatal heart attack suggests he had a genetic disorder.
Sheriff Michael Bouchard said the department had high hopes for the K-9 officers had come to love.
“Our animals are such a great part of our life and impact us in so many positive ways, and their passing leaves a huge void, especially in this circumstance,” said Sheriff Michael Bouchard. “[Riggs] was one of our newer dogs that had showed such great promise and connection with people. He will be greatly missed.”
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A native of the Netherlands, Riggs joined the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office full-time in December after graduating from the K-9 Academy. He specialized in building searches and evidence recovery, as well as identifying narcotics.
During his eight months of service, he tracked down 18 suspects, searched a half dozen buildings, and sniffed more than a handful of vehicles for illegal drugs.
One of 12 dogs, Riggs rounded out one of the state’s largest K-9 units. The dogs are trained in detecting explosives, narcotics, and arson accelerants.
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