Holly MatkinMobile, AL – Mobile Police Department (MPD) K9 Pedro died unexpectedly on April 10.
The nine-year-old K9’s exact cause of death was not immediately released.
“The Mobile Police Department is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Pedro, a beloved K9 officer who passed away on April 10, 2023, after serving the department for five years,” the MPD said in a press release on April 11. “Pedro was an exceptional K9 officer who made a significant impact on the community’s safety during his service.”
The department said K9 Pedro was “an outstanding officer” who conducted more than 300 searches for explosives at community events throughout the city during his career.
He also assisted outside agencies with more than 100 searches.
K9 Pedro was the recipient of the Best K9 Team Overall and Best Single Purpose K9 Awards in 2020.
“Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pedro was a great partner to Corporal Lawrence Battiste V,” the MPD said. “The two formed a strong bond and worked tirelessly to keep the citizens of Mobile safe.”
He was also a beloved visitor at all of the local schools, where he “formed many close friendships and left a lasting impression on the students and faculty,” the MPD said.
“Pedro’s passing is a great loss to the Mobile Police Department and the community of Mobile,” the department added. “He will be greatly missed by his fellow officers, his partner Corporal Lawrence Battiste V, and all who knew him. Pedro’s legacy will continue to live on as a reminder of his outstanding service and dedication to keeping the citizens of Mobile safe. Rest in peace, Pedro.”
The MPD held a memorial procession in K9 Pedro’s honor on April 19.
The motorcade escorted the fallen K9 from University Animal Hospital to MPD Headquarters.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mobile Police Department and Cpl. Battiste in the loss of K9 Pedro.
