The Albuquerque Police Department is mourning the loss of K-9 Officer Rebel, who was killed in the line of duty early Thursday morning during a SWAT operation.
According to APD, Rebel was assisting officers in the apprehension of an armed suspect near the Albuquerque International Sunport. The incident began on May 27, when officers responded to a report of stolen tools at the Comfort Inn Albuquerque Airport. A subsequent SWAT operation to apprehend the suspect was unsuccessful initially.
Police tracked the suspect back to the Comfort Inn. When the suspect attempted to leave the hotel, he fled back inside and then jumped from a second-story window upon spotting officers. K-9 Rebel was deployed and successfully stopped the suspect. According to APD Chief Harold Medina, as officers approached, the suspect produced a firearm, leading to a shootout where both the suspect and K-9 Rebel were killed.
K-9 Rebel served with the APD for seven years. The department expressed their condolences to Rebel’s handler, the K-9 unit, and all personnel affected by the loss, honoring Rebel’s dedication and service.
“Rebel was a loyal and courageous member of the Albuquerque Police Department for seven years and served our city with honor and bravery,” APD posted on social media. “He was not only a partner to his handler but a valued member of our police family. His dedication and service will never be forgotten.”
So, who shot Rebel?