Chattanooga, September 25, 2025
News Summary
The Chattanooga Police Department is grieving the recent loss of K-9 Buck, a two-year-old Labrador, who passed away from medical complications shortly after K-9 Diesel’s death. Buck, trained in explosives and firearms detection, displayed gastrointestinal issues before being diagnosed with septic peritonitis, leading to his untimely death. Both K-9s served with dedication, and their loss profoundly affects the police department and the community they protected.
Chattanooga – The Chattanooga Police Department is mourning the loss of K-9 Buck, a two-year-old Labrador who passed away from medical complications earlier this week. His death follows closely on the heels of K-9 Diesel’s, a three-year-old German shepherd who was euthanized just days earlier after sustaining severe injuries.
K-9 Buck died on Wednesday, only a week after K-9 Diesel’s passing on September 17. Buck displayed signs of gastrointestinal issues and lethargy the day prior, prompting his handler, Master Police Officer Lucas Timmons, to seek veterinary assistance. An initial examination by Buck’s primary veterinarian revealed significant abnormalities that required a referral to a specialist.
Upon further evaluation, K-9 Buck was diagnosed with septic peritonitis, which escalated to Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), a life-threatening condition with a high mortality rate. Despite all possible medical interventions, K-9 Buck was unable to survive the serious complications associated with his diagnosis.
K-9 Buck was born on June 17, 2021, and joined the Chattanooga Police Department in August 2022. He was trained in explosives and firearms detection, contributing to numerous safety sweeps and investigations related to gun crimes. His role extended beyond professional duties, as K-9 Buck lived with Officer Timmons and his family, participating in family vacations and recreational activities like swimming.
Chattanooga Police Chief John Chambers expressed deep sorrow over the loss of two K-9s in such a short timeframe. The department honored both K-9 Buck and K-9 Diesel for their invaluable service and contributions to the community. The close bond between police dogs and their handlers, exemplified by the relationships built during their time together, has been highlighted in the wake of these unfortunate events.
The Chattanooga Police Department showed appreciation for the veterinary teams involved for their efforts in caring for both K-9s during their medical crises. The loss of Buck and Diesel underscores the profound emotional impact such losses have not only on their handlers but also on the department and the community they serve.
K-9 Buck and K-9 Diesel: A Tribute
- K-9 Buck: Born on June 17, 2021; served since August 2022; trained in explosives and firearms detection.
- K-9 Diesel: Passed away on September 17 after injuries sustained during a security sweep.
Medical History Overview
- K-9 Buck: Gastrointestinal issues led to septic peritonitis and DIC.
- K-9 Diesel: Euthanized post-sustaining serious injuries from shards of glass.
The Impact on the Community
Both K-9s were beloved members of the CPD’s K-9 Unit, playing significant roles in public safety and community engagement. Their loss serves as a reminder of the deep connections between law enforcement dogs and the officers they serve alongside.
FAQ
What caused K-9 Buck’s death?
K-9 Buck died from septic peritonitis that progressed to Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), a life-threatening condition with a high mortality rate.
When did K-9 Diesel pass away?
K-9 Diesel was euthanized on September 17 after sustaining severe injuries from shards of glass during a security sweep.
How long did K-9 Buck serve with the Chattanooga Police Department?
K-9 Buck began service with the Chattanooga Police Department in August 2022.
What roles did K-9 Buck perform?
K-9 Buck was trained in explosives and firearms detection and participated in safety sweeps at events, as well as searches for firearms related to gun crimes.
What was the bond between K-9s and their handlers?
K-9s and their handlers often share a close bond, with K-9s like Buck and Diesel being beloved members of the CPD’s K-9 Unit and their handlers’ families.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | K-9 Buck | K-9 Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 2 years | 3 years |
| Date of Passing | September 20, 2023 | September 17, 2023 |
| Condition | Septic peritonitis and DIC | Severe injuries from glass |
| Start of Service | August 2022 | Not specified |
| Specialization | Explosives and firearms detection | Not specified |
| Handler | Master Police Officer Lucas Timmons | Not specified |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga K-9 Sully Celebrates Birthday with Crime-Fighting Efforts
Additional Resources
- NewsChannel 9: Chattanooga Police Department Mourning Loss of K9 Buck
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Police Mourn Loss of K9 Buck
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Police K-9 Dies from Medical Complications
- Fox10TV: Police Department Deeply Saddened Announce Passing of K-9
- Wikipedia: Police Dog
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Dog
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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