MORRIS COUNTY, NJ – The Morris County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) announced one of its K9s has passed away.
Following a K9 request for service, K9 Spike’s handler, Detective Chris Murarik, observed signs that Spike was in distress.
Detective Murarik rushed him to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital, and through medical evaluation, it was determined that K9 Spike, who was a 7-year-old Belgian Malinois, needed immediate medical intervention.
Multiple doctors and medical staff did everything they could to save K9 Spike, but unfortunately, he succumbed to the suspected internal issue.
Spike served as a dual purpose K9. He was certified in patrol where he tracked for lost people and criminal suspects. He was also certified in narcotics detection where he successfully detected the presence of narcotics.
He was partnered with two handlers during his service, first with Detective Granato and his second partner, Detective Murarik, who was by his side in his final moments.
Sheriff James M. Gannon spoke of Spike, “Spike was a terrific partner to both Detective Granato and to Detective Murarik. He served them both, and the County of Morris well. I was saddened to hear of his passing, but grateful for his service.”
“The entire K9 Unit, especially Detective Murarik are in our thoughts. Thank you, K9 Spike, for your bravery, loyalty and making us smile. You are forever a part of the agency’s history. We will see you over the Rainbow Bridge,” Gannon said.
The Morris County Sheriff’s Office thanked Abey Glen, the medical teams of Hodes Veterinary Group, Newton Veterinary Hospital, Garden State Veterinary Services, and Sonopath for their efforts to save K-9 Spike.
