A U.S. Marshals Tactical K-9 who was critically injured while assisting in a manhunt has been released from hospital.
The 18-month-old Belgian Malinois, named Rocky, was instrumental in locating an armed man accused of killing Brazoria County Sheriff’s Deputy Jesus Vargas, who had concealed himself inside a dumpster.
As officers approached, the suspect opened fire, striking Rocky twice—once in the neck and once in the nose.
Officers returned fire, hitting the suspect multiple times. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following the confrontation, officers rushed Rocky to a Texas DPS helicopter waiting nearby, which transported him to Westbury Animal Hospital for emergency surgery.
K9 Rocky is an amazing dog. He took a bullet in the line of duty while locating a killer. His actions saved lives. Sadly, Rocky is undergoing emergency surgery, but is expected to survive. He would make an awesome choice for a White House dog under Trump. https://t.co/FbAhUm4HIG
— Rukshan Fernando (@therealrukshan) January 16, 2025
The dog’s handler remained by his side through the night as veterinary staff worked to treat his injuries.
Several officers also visited the hospital to show their support, acknowledging Rocky’s role in protecting them during the operation.
Despite his injuries, Rocky is showing remarkable resilience. He is already eating, drinking, and walking again, and he has been reunited with his handler.
JUST IN: K9 Rocky, the brave U.S. Marshals Service dog who was shot during a manhunt in Houston, Texas, has been released from the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery. pic.twitter.com/jY4ob8QVJX
— LivePDDave (@LivePDDave1) January 18, 2025
Officials expect him to make a full recovery and return to active duty in the near future.
Rocky, who has been in service for only six months, is being hailed as a hero by law enforcement for his courage and life-saving actions during a dangerous operation.
“We are all extremely grateful to the staff at Westbury for the fact that Rocky is still with us,” said T. Michael O’Connor, U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Texas.
“While Wednesday was a tragedy for all of us in law enforcement with the loss of Deputy Vargas, it likely could have gone worse had Rocky not been there.”
“He is a hero. We all wish him a speedy recovery.”
K9 Rocky sitting proudly with his Westbury Hospital veterinary friends that saved his life! ❤️ @WestburyVets THANK YOU!
He was released yesterday to go home to rest & further recover. pic.twitter.com/6rHckLL73n
— ProudArmyBrat (@leslibless) January 18, 2025
