K-9 dies after getting entangled in razor wire while tracking suspect

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS/Gray News) - A K-9 deputy from South Carolina died from his injuries after he got entangled in razor wire fencing while tracking a suspect.

The Richland County Sheriff’s Department says deputies requested the help of K-9s to find a suspect who fled on foot from a stolen car around 3 a.m. Oct. 5, WIS reports.

K-9 Specialist Samantha Ramirez and her partner, K-9 Kodak, were among those who responded to track the suspect in a wooded area. Kodak got entangled in razor wire fencing that was hidden by brush and suffered severe injuries to his abdomen and leg.

Ramirez and another deputy were also injured as they attempted to untangle Kodak.

The K-9 was taken to the South Carolina Veterinary Specialist and Emergency Care where he underwent emergency surgery and later died.

Deputies say the suspect they were chasing has not been apprehended.

RCSD described Kodak as a 6-year-old Dutch shepherd who was with Ramirez for four years.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later time.

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