Maine police K-9 shot, killed in the line of duty

A tragic incident unfolded in Maine when a Maine man was killed by authorities after fatally shooting a Maine State Police (MSP) K-9 named “Preacher” in the line of duty. The 4-year-old Belgian Malinois was killed during a tactical team operation in Portage.

Preacher and his handler, Sgt. Jonathan Russell, were deployed to a domestic dispute that escalated into an armed standoff involving 29-year-old Steven Righini, who also shot an Aroostook deputy, according to a statement from MSP.

The standoff lasted several hours before Righini attempted to flee the home around 8 p.m. Preacher was shot in the abdomen after being deployed to apprehend Righini. Following the shooting, Righini was engaged by Sgt. Russell and specialist Andrew Hardy, who returned fire. Righini was pronounced dead at the scene.

Preacher was rushed to an emergency veterinary clinic in Presque Isle, where he underwent surgery. Despite the efforts of veterinary staff, he tragically passed away early Tuesday. He was surrounded by Russell and several members of the tactical team when he died.

“K-9 Preacher was more than just a working dog—he was a dedicated partner, a protector, and a hero,” said MSP Col. William Ross. “Most people will never understand the sacrifices made by our K-9 teams, but last night, Preacher made the ultimate sacrifice to protect others from harm.”

Russell and Preacher attended the MSP K-9 Patrol School in Fall 2023, where they became a certified patrol team. The pair served the greater Southern Field Troop area and the MSP Tactical Team.

“The Maine State Police extends its heartfelt condolences to Sgt. Jonathan Russell and the entire K-9 Unit,” MSP wrote. “The loss of Preacher is a profound reminder of the courage and dedication of our law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners.”

This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers and their loyal K-9 companions in the line of duty. The bond between a handler and their K-9 partner is a special one, built on trust, training, and mutual respect. Preacher will be remembered as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect others.