WETHERSFIELD -- The memorial service held on Thursday in Wethersfield was befitting the dedication of one member of the police department.
Wethersfield K9 Thor was killed in the line of duty last month while he was tracking a suspect. A veterinarian said post-mortem that he was likely kicked or fell before he collapsed, which led to his death. At the time, he had been tracking a possible kidnapping suspect, who was later arrested. Chauncy Lamont Smith, 20, of Hartford, has not been charged in Thor's death at this time, but police are still investigating.
But his colleagues remembered the true nature of Thor's service.
"They don't ask for anything in return and they give everything they have," said Wethersfield Chief of Police James Cetran.
Thor was one of two police K9s with the Wethersfield police.
Officers from departments across the state showed up to honor the fallen hero.
"His dedication, his loyalty, his enthusiasm, his tenacity was above and beyond what we would even expect out of another dog. His job -- he couldn't do it fast enough or quick enough," Chief Cetran said.
Thor served for about two years before his death, and helped solve at least eight major cases.
The department wrote a message about Thor on their Facebook page after his death:
It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Wethersfield Police K-9 Officer Thor. K-9 Thor passed away last night as a result of injuries he sustained in Monday's foot pursuit of a kidnapping suspect. We will begin making formal arrangements to honor our fallen brother and will post the specifics once finalized. Our deepest condolences remain with Officer Nuno Martins and his family during this difficult time, just as K-9 Thor’s courage in deeds will remain in our hearts. Sergeant Jennie Rivera, Canine Unit Supervisor.
