OCPD, Community Members Honor Fallen K-9 Officer

A somber day Thursday for the Oklahoma City Police Department as they laid one of their K-9 officers to rest.

Kye the police dog was a 3-year-old Belgian German Shepard.

He was stabbed multiple times by a suspect during a foot chase on Sunday and died Monday.

“I will protect you with my last breathe, when all others have left you, and the loneliness of night closes in, I will be at your side.”

This was one of two poems read by officers at the memorial service for Kye.

8/28/2014 Related Story: OKC Police K-9 Killed In Line Of Duty Laid To Rest

The church was packed with police officers, law enforcement and emergency personnel from all over Oklahoma and other parts of the country.

Members of the community also paid respect.

“A precious life was lost saving that of another,” Oklahoma City Police Chaplain Greg Giltner said during the service.

Outside, Kye was given a 21-gun salute by members of his Oklahoma City police family.

Oklahoma City Police Chief Bill Citty presented Kye's partner, Sgt. Ryan Stark, and his family with the ceremonial flag from the tribute.

8/26/2014 Related Story: Police Honor K-9 Officer Killed In The Line Of Duty

“Because Kye didn't just come to work and just do his job,” said Captain Wade Gourley with the OCPD Tactical Team that overseas the K-9 division. “He lived at home with Sgt. Stark and his family, and so they've all lost a member of their family, and it's been very hard on them.”

Even famed coach Barry Switzer came to show his support.

“You know it's tragic that we would have to be here today,” said Switzer. “But that's the line of business they are in, and that's what they have to do for us and our community.”

As everyone looked on, they witnessed a special processional of service animals and their handlers from around the country.

“Not many people really understand the bond between a canine and their handler,” said Michael Clark, who came all the way from Denver with his service dog. “And I believe they could be shown the respect from the community that they deserve.”

Police say more than 1,000 people came to show their support for this fallen canine comrade and his service to the department.

Kye was buried at the Precious Pets Cemetery in Spencer.