JCPD: K-9 Vethos died from suspected heat exposure

The Junction City Police Department says preliminary findings indicate heat exposure caused the death of K-9 Police Service Dog Vethos, who died while on duty Monday.

In an update, the department said Vethos was found unresponsive inside a K-9-equipped patrol vehicle. Officials said preliminary findings point to heat exposure as the cause of death.

The department has asked the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to conduct an independent third-party investigation into the incident. JCPD said it will fully cooperate with the investigation.

In accordance with department policy, Vethos’ handler has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Vethos, a Belgian Malinois, joined the Junction City Police Department in 2024 and served in the Investigations Division. The department said his loss continues to be felt throughout the agency and the Junction City community.

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