GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP, N.J. – The Galloway Township Police Department is mourning the loss of retired K-9 Colt, who passed away this week surrounded by his handler, K-9 Sergeant Brent Lopez, and family. Colt was ten and a half years old.
K-9 Colt joined the department in August 2016, partnering with then-Officer Lopez. The pair graduated from the John “Sonny” Burke Atlantic County K-9 Academy in February 2017, beginning what officials described as a “banner career” in service to the community.
Key Points
- Retired K-9 Colt served with the Galloway Township Police Department from 2016 to 2022.
- Colt helped locate suspects, missing persons, and narcotics during his career.
- The department says he will be remembered for his community presence and loyal service.
Distinguished service and community impact
Throughout his six years on active duty, K-9 Colt assisted in numerous searches, drug investigations, and public safety operations. He earned multiple Police Dog 1 and narcotics certifications from the United States Police K-9 Association, reflecting his excellence in detection and law enforcement support.
Beyond patrol work, Colt was a fixture at National Night Out events and school demonstrations, where he helped build positive connections between officers and residents.
Remembered as loyal partner and community favorite
After retiring in November 2022, Colt lived peacefully with Sergeant Lopez and his family. Chief Eric B. Hendrickson praised the pair’s years of dedication, noting that “K-9 Sergeant Lopez and K-9 Colt served as a top K-9 team all the way up to Colt’s retirement.”
“Our thoughts are with Sergeant Lopez as he mourns the loss of his faithful partner,” Chief Hendrickson said. “Colt’s service and loyalty will not be forgotten.”
