K9 Rex

Rex

K9 Rex was shot and killed while attempting an apprehension at the Whiteway Mobile Home Ranch near the intersection of Grace Street and Angelo Street (modern-day area of Memorial Parkway and Sparkman Drive).

Officers were dispatched to the area to investigate the reports of gunfire at about 11:00 pm. Upon arrival, they located at least two mobile homes that had been struck by bullets. An officer went to the mobile home of the man he believed to be a suspect and looked through the window. He saw the man pacing the floor with a holstered pistol on his belt. The officer called for more assistance including a canine unit.

By the time other units arrived, the suspect was outside his mobile home walking back and forth yelling at responding Officers. He drew his weapon several times and challenged the police to take it from him. K9 Rex was released by his handler for an apprehension. As K9 Rex attacked the suspect the man stepped aside. K9 Rex attacked a second time at which time the suspect shot him.

While K9 Rex continued engaging the suspect, other officers were able to move into position and take the man into custody. The man was given probation and ordered to reimburse the department $200.

K9 Rex had served with the Huntsville Police Department for one year.