Charlottesville, Virginia – This week, the Charlottesville Police Department announced the unexpected death of a K9 named Blue. According to a news release, the bloodhound was found deceased inside a CPD police vehicle on the evening of August 16, 2026, at his handler’s residence in Greene County.
The agency said:
Out of respect for the integrity of the ongoing investigation, the Department is not releasing additional details at this time. The Department will allow the investigation to proceed and will share additional information as it becomes available.
K-9 partners are more than working animals; they are members of our department family. They are trained and trusted to serve alongside their handlers in keeping our community safe. The loss of a K-9 partner is felt deeply throughout the entire agency.
In April 2024, the department congratulated Blue and his handler for completing training:
Officer Nash and K-9 Blue have successfully completed their certification to work trailing calls.
The K-9 Team is now available to serve the needs of our community and respond to regional requests for K-9 service. Please join us in congratulating them on this achievement!
The Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation Appomattox Field Office is currently investigating the incident.
Rest easy Blue.
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26 Comments
It sounds as if this was intentional. How do you forget your K9 partner was left in the car to die an agonizing death? I’m sick of officers that have no regard for the lives of their dogs. This pos officer needs to be fired and punished. These dogs are officers and perform duties that humans can’t do. The officer, and others like him, should receive the same sentence they would receive if they killed a human officer. Throw him in prison with the general population. Hopefully with inmates who love animals..
You are 100% right in all your comments. There is simply no excuse. This is your partner, you do not go into your house and leave him in the car. You are all he has and you are responsible for him. This man needs to be charged just like any other person with animal cruelty and be sacked from his position. He has shown he has little/no regard for the welfare of this animal.