Chatanooga, TN – Last week, a young K9 with the Chatanooga Police Department was euthanized after suffering devastating injuries in the line of duty. The three-year-old German shepherd, Diesel, was grievously wounded while performing a security sweep during a SWAT operation on September 15.
In a release, the agency commented on the difficult decision to humanely euthanized Diesel:
The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of K9 Diesel, who died in the line of duty on September 17, 2025, due to complications from injuries sustained while executing a security sweep during a SWAT operation earlier this week. K9 Diesel underwent emergency surgery on the night of September 15, 2025, but it was quickly realized that his injuries would leave him with a severely diminished quality of life. After careful consideration and multiple consultations with veterinary teams, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize him.
As reported by News Channel 9, Diesel suffered grave injuries when he jumped through a broken window and severely cut his rear legs, severing his Achilles tendon and an artery.
Assistant Chief Rusty Morrison said, “We are all aware of the inherent risk in policing and that includes for our K9 partners too. Diesel faced those risks with loyalty and courage, always at the ready to protect our officers and safeguard our community. K9 Diesel was a member of the CPD family and his loss is felt by all of us, especially his handler and the entire K9 Unit.”
The agency outlined Diesel’s duties and achievements:
He was a dual-purpose patrol and narcotics detection K9, assigned to Officer Paul Winkelman. Diesel’s name carries special meaning. He was one of five CPD K9s named in remembrance of the Fallen Five from July 16, 2015. The name Diesel came from a nickname that was recommended by the family of U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Carson Holmquist.
During his 17 months of service, K9 Diesel had many achievements:
* Earned 2nd place in Narcotics Detection during the 2025 USPCA Region 22 K9 Trials, qualifying for nationals.
* Assisted SWAT, Narcotics, and Gun Teams on numerous operations.
* Carried out multiple successful apprehensions.
Rest easy Diesel.
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