Southern Utah law enforcement community looks back on K9 Cyrus’s ‘dedication, unmatched work ethic’
Published on June 23, 2026
The Southern Utah law enforcement community and many associated with it are mourning the loss of a special member of their family: K9 Cyrus.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office issued a press release on Friday announcing it is “deeply saddened” by the death of the 7-year-old Belgian Malinois, which had served the department since 2020.
“The Washington County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to Cyrus’s handler, his family, and the entire law enforcement K9 community during this time of mourning,” the news release said. “The agency also expresses its sincere gratitude to the public for the overwhelming outpouring of support and condolences.”
According to the Sheriff’s Office, early on June 14, K9 Cyrus and his handler were concluding their shift when K9 Cyrus developed a “sudden, unexpected medical emergency.”
Due to the severity of his condition, K9 Cyrus was life-flighted to the Las Vegas Veterinary Specialty Center for advanced care after his handler initially rushed him to a local emergency veterinary clinic.
“Despite three days of intensive medical intervention,” the news release said, “K9 Cyrus passed away peacefully with his handler and family by his side. He was seven years old.”