A veteran police K9 with the Braintree, Massachusetts, police department was killed, and two officers were injured, in a violent shootout with a domestic violence suspect on June 4. The K9, named Kitt, accompanied officers who were searching a heavily wooded area adjacent to McCusker Drive. The team was searching for a suspect who was believed to be armed with multiple handguns.
According to a press release from District Attorney Michael Morrissey, Kitt was killed, and two officers injured, when the suspect, later identified as Andrew Homen, opened fire. Homen was killed in the exchange.
After Kitt’s death, the department issued a statement about the K9:
K9 Kitt started with us 12 years ago. Going through K9 patrol school, you came out…guns blazing…during your service you apprehended countless criminals, often in the dead of night…through thick brush, and insane weather. You found bad guys, wandered elderly, firearms and other ballistic evidence.
You were never shy to help out at K9 Demo’s or our Citizen Police / Junior Police Academies.
You also never declined a moment to be showcased on our social media
We will forever miss and remember you buddy. Free Time….
K9 Kitt
EOW 6/4/21
The department also recognized the loss of Kitt in a Tweet:
Free Time Kitt. We will forever miss you and always remember the good times we shared with you buddy. You went out a lion, protecting your dad and his partners. K9 Kitt EOW: 6/4/21 #braintree #workingdog
Police Officer Matt Donohue, one of the injured officers, was released from the hospital a day after the shooting. Officer Bill Cushing, Kitt’s handler, remains hospitalized with serious injuries.
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