Beloved accelerant detection k9 camden remembered after years of service

Beloved accelerant detection K9 Camden remembered after years of service

BALTIMORE, MD — The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal is mourning the loss of K9 Camden, a highly trained accelerant detection dog who served in more than 500 investigations and was part of a close-knit national team of elite K9 units.

K9 Camden was partnered with retired Union County, North Carolina, Fire Marshal Rigoli. The pair graduated from ATF Class #117, alongside Deputy Chief Nelson and K9 Zorro, and S/DSFM Decker and K9 Sky from Maryland. The teams trained together extensively, including a memorable session at Camden Yards — the namesake of the K9 — forming a bond that extended beyond their work.

With fewer than 65 ATF-certified Accelerant Detection K9 teams across the country, Camden was part of a specialized group that handles high-level investigations. His track record included over 500 cases and participation in seven National Response Team deployments.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office called Camden’s passing a loss to the entire K9 community, emphasizing the deep connection shared between these dogs and their handlers.

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Key Points

  • K9 Camden served in over 500 fire investigations and 7 National Response Team callouts
  • Camden was part of ATF Class #117 and trained with Maryland K9 teams at Camden Yards
  • The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal honored Camden as part of a national K9 family
Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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