The Hawaii Police Department confirmed that K9 Archer, a six-and-a-half-year-old Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd cross, passed away on 4 September. Officials said he had been left alone in a vehicle for “an unacceptable period of time”.
His death was announced the following day.
Preventable tragedy
Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna described the incident as a “preventable tragedy” and said the department was committed to ensuring such an event never occurs again.
“Archer was not just a police dog, he was a partner, protector, and a member of our police family,” Mahuna said. He added that the dog’s handler was devastated, and confirmed both a criminal and administrative investigation would take place.
Policy review
The department has pledged to review its K9 policies and procedures, including vehicle safety practices, to prevent future incidents. Archer, who was trained in narcotics detection, joined the force from Hungary in 2021.
According to PETA, at least 130 dogs have died from heat-related causes this year in the United States, with hundreds more rescued from dangerous conditions.
RIP Archer.
