A U.S. Marshals Tactical K-9, Rocky, is out of the hospital and on the road to recovery after being shot twice while helping to capture a suspect wanted for the fatal shooting of Brazoria County Sheriff’s deputy Jesus Vargas. The 18-month-old Belgian Malinois, who had been on the job for just six months, is now back with his handler after undergoing surgery and being treated for injuries.
Recommended Videos
The Incident: A heroic act and an unfortunate attack
U.S. Marshals say after the suspect shot Deputy Vargas, the K-9 alerted officers to a dumpster where the suspect was hiding. In the process, the suspect fired at Rocky, hitting him twice—once in the neck and once in the nose. Officers fired back, striking the suspect, who was later pronounced dead at the scene.
Immediately after the shooting, KPRC 2 caught the moment Rocky was rushed to a waiting Texas DPS helicopter, which took him to Westbury Animal Hospital for emergency surgery.
Authorities say his handler, who stayed by his side throughout the night, wasn’t alone in showing concern—several law enforcement officers visited the hospital to check on the K-9 they credit with playing a pivotal role in the operation.
Recovery: A strong comeback for the young K-9
Despite the traumatic injuries, Rocky is walking, eating, and drinking, and is expected to make a full recovery. Though he will be taking some time off to heal, there are plans for him to return to the job in the future.
Law enforcement officials are praising his bravery, calling him a hero for his part in the operation.
T. Michael O’Connor, U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Texas, expressed immense gratitude for the staff at Westbury Animal Hospital.
“We are all extremely grateful to the staff at Westbury for the fact that Rocky is still with us,” he said. “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.”
