The Gist: A Clayton County Police K9 lost its life early this morning while trying to apprehend a suspect, who remains at large.
What Happened: According to the Clayton County Police Department, at about 1:46 a.m. on Tara Boulevard, police arrived to back up Jonesboro City Police in an ongoing investigation. The scenario escalated when a suspect, identified as seventeen-year-old Stephon Ford, bolted from the scene.
A K9 unit scoured the nearby woods, finding Ford, who then opened fire. The dog, named Waro, was struck and later died in a local animal hospital. Thankfully, no other injuries were reported among officers or citizens.
By The Numbers:
- 1 K9 fatally injured
- 3 charges issued against Stephon Ford: Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer, Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, Destruction of Government Property
- 1 ongoing investigation
Why It Matters: Beyond the loss of a trained service animal, this incident raises concerns about public safety in the Clayton and Jonesboro areas. A young suspect armed and willing to fire at law enforcement remains at large.
How You Can Help: Warrants for Stephon Ford have been issued. Anyone with info regarding his whereabouts should call the Clayton County Police at 770-477-3550. The Georgia Department of Public Safety sent condolences for K9 Waro, a reflection of the tight-knit law enforcement community affected by today’s events. The investigation continues.
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