BNSF Railway Police Department, Railroad Police
End of Watch Thursday, February 7, 2019
Add to My HeroesDefender
K9 Defender was shot and killed by his handler after being mistaken for a coyote in the area of Bena Road and Neumarkel Road in Kern County, California.
Defender's handler had placed him in their patrol vehicle before going out on a foot patrol in the area. Defender somehow managed to get out of the vehicle and approached his handler, startling him. His handler, who had just been briefed on recent sightings of coyotes in the area, mistook Defender for a coyote and shot him.
Bio
- Breed Unknown Breed
- Gender Male
- Age Not available
- Tour Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire (Inadvertent)
- Weapon Officer's handgun
Most Recent Reflection
View all 28 ReflectionsIt is a shame your picture and basic information have not been provided. It is the least the agency could do. Rest with honor.
Senior Special Agent BJ Stanley
BNSF Railway Police
January 9, 2026
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