Holly MatkinPrince George’s County, MD – Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) K9 Bella died unexpectedly on April 3, according to her department.
The 13-year-old bloodhound’s exact cause of death was not immediately released.
The PGPD announced K9 Bella’s death in a press release later that day.
“With a heavy heart, our Special Operations Division-Canine Section announces the passing of K9 Bella,” the police department said.
K9 Bella joined the department in 2011 and was “the loyal partner” of PGPD Corporal Michael Cicale at the time of her death.
She previously served alongside PGPD Corporal Ritchie Smith, who has also passed away.
“During her 12-year career here at the PGPD, Bella’s tremendous skill and nose was responsible for locating multiple missing people as well as tracking down suspects,” the police department said. “Bella was a faithful partner who will truly be missed.”
Hundreds of people offered their condolences to the PGPD and Cpl. Cicale in response to the agency’s announcement.
“Such an honor to work with goofy Bella, she will be so missed,” one message read.
“Bella was a happy girl and I feel lucky to have worked with her,” another person wrote. “Rest easy Bella.”
Many people said they were thankful for K9 Bella’s lifetime of service to the community.
“I’m so very sorry to Cpl. Cicale and the whole team,” one such message read. “Bella thank you for your service. You will be greatly missed.”
“Rest easy K9 Bella,” another person said. “Thank you for your service. Prayers for your partner and for your department family whom you so loyally served.”
With a heavy heart, the Special Operations Division-Canine Section announces the passing of K9 Bella. Bella was a faithful and loyal partner who served this agency and county for 12 years. Read more about her here:https://t.co/3bORkwBEog pic.twitter.com/oOQfkgq0Wf
— PGPDNEWS (@PGPDNews) April 3, 2023
K9 Bella The Bloodhound Who Sniffed Out Missing People, Suspects Dies
😢RIP, girl. Thanks for your service. Condolences to Cpl. Michael Cicale and the Prince George's County PDhttps://t.co/uAwA6gBmf6#ThinBlueLine #K9 #dog #police #WaronDrugs #dogsoftwitter #OPLive #OnPatrolLive pic.twitter.com/Ayr0DcRoHO— On Patrol K9 (@OnPatrolK9) April 4, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Prince George’s County Police Department and Cpl. Michael Cicale in the loss of K9 Bella.
