MCKINNEY, Texas — A McKinney Police K9 was killed in the line of duty alongside a shooting suspect during an officer-involved shooting on Thursday afternoon, authorities said.
According to the McKinney Police Department, officers responded to the Red Roof Inn at 1300 North Central Expressway around 2:44 p.m. following reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers found a 52-year-old woman suffering from a gunshot wound to her upper body. McKinney Fire Department personnel, along with officers, treated her at the scene before transporting her to the hospital, where she is currently in stable condition.
Police said the male suspect retreated into his hotel room and barricaded himself inside. SWAT and crisis negotiators were called to the scene and made contact with the suspect. During the negotiations, the suspect reportedly threatened to “shoot everyone.”
Approximately 30 minutes later, the suspect exited his hotel room, walked down a staircase, and yelled at officers before attempting to walk away. Police deployed a K9 to assist with his arrest, but when the K9 approached, the suspect drew a firearm. Officers then fired at the suspect, striking him. He was given medical aid at the scene before being transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Tragically, the K9, named Azi, was fatally injured during the incident. McKinney police confirmed Azi’s death in the line of duty.
The Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA) expressed their condolences for the fallen K9 in an X post, saying, “Rest easy, K9 hero. Your watch is over, but your legacy lives on.”
Chopper footage captured the solemn moment as Azi’s body was carried from the patrol car into an UrgentVet clinic, with officers standing in line and saluting the fallen K9.
