The Bradenton Police Department says one of its retired K9s has died after fighting an aggressive form of cancer.
The K9, named Drax, died Tuesday morning alongside Officer Brandon Smolarz, his “partner and best friend,” according to the department.
K9 Drax served with the police department from 2019 to 2024, and was “fearless, dedicated and committed” during his service, the department said.
“Off duty, he was playful, endearing, desperately wanted to be a lap dog, and always eager for someone to join him in a game of tug (toy provided),” said the police department.
“He was enjoying his retirement with the Smolarz family, and his loss has created a void in their hearts—and ours,” the department continued.
Bradenton police thank K9 Drax for his service and say that he will “never be forgotten.”
K9 Drax died on Tuesday morning alongside Officer Brandon Smolarz, his “partner and best friend,” Bradenton Police Department said. Provided photo Courtesy of Bradenton Police Department
K9 Drax died on Tuesday morning alongside Officer Brandon Smolarz, his “partner and best friend,” Bradenton Police Department said. Provided photo Courtesy of Bradenton Police Department
K9 Drax died on Tuesday morning alongside Officer Brandon Smolarz, his “partner and best friend,” Bradenton Police Department said. Provided photo Courtesy of Bradenton Police Department
K9 Drax died on Tuesday morning alongside Officer Brandon Smolarz, his “partner and best friend,” Bradenton Police Department said. Provided photo Courtesy of Bradenton Police Department
K9 Drax died on Tuesday morning alongside Officer Brandon Smolarz, his “partner and best friend,” Bradenton Police Department said. Provided photo Courtesy of Bradenton Police Department
K9 Drax died on Tuesday morning alongside Officer Brandon Smolarz, his “partner and best friend,” Bradenton Police Department said. Provided photo Courtesy of Bradenton Police Department
Amaia Gavica is the Bradenton Herald’s breaking news reporter. She has reported in multiple states and earned her degree from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University.
