The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is mourning the loss of a third K9 this month.
K9 Bella passed unexpectedly on Tuesday.
The dog suffered a medical emergency and passed away in the arms of her handler. She was seven years old.
ALEA released a statement saying Bella was more than a working dog but also a beloved member of the ALEA family. She saved countless lives by detecting large quantities of drugs and tracking down criminals. As recently as July 21, Bella assisted her handler during a traffic stop on Interstate 22 in Marion County. She alerted to illegal drugs, leading to the seizure of 150 pounds of marijuana and 30 pounds of THC edibles.
Her handler, Sr. Trooper Seahorn, said, "This is, without a doubt, one of the hardest times of my life. Not only was Bella my faithful partner, but she was also mine and my family's best friend. From family vacations and simple trips to the store to sitting on the sidelines of a school ball game, she was with us every minute of every day. She enjoyed life to the fullest and taught us to do the same."
"K-9 Bella exemplified the very best of what it means to serve," said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. "Her unwavering dedication, incredible skill and genuine love for people set her apart. The trust and teamwork she shared with her handler were inspiring and stand as a testament to what makes the ALEA K-9 Unit so special. We are grateful for the profound impact she made on our Agency and the citizens of Alabama."
ALEA lost two other K9s this month.
K9 Matyko, 7, died on August 12 while being transported for a medical emergency to the veterinary hospital in Huntsville.
K9 Pici, a retired K9, died on August 2 after a long battle with bone cancer.
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