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Marion County deputies ask for prayers after K-9 ‘Leo’ shot, injured in line of duty

Marion County Sheriff's Office K-9 Leo. (Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.)

MARION COUNTY, Fla. – A Marion County Sheriff’s Office K-9 was shot and injured after responding to a suspected battery incident Saturday morning, officials said.

At around 9 a.m., deputies — including K-9 “Leo” — responded to a report of a suspect accused of battery by strangulation on NE 144th Court in Silver Springs.

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Deputies said they located the suspect in the backyard, and he started shooting toward them. As a result, K-9 Leo was injured.

According to MCSO, deputies returned fire and apprehended the suspect. However, he had to be transported to the hospital where he later died.

Leo was rushed to the UF Veterinary Hospital, where professionals are doing everything possible to save him, deputies said.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page said that Leo is in stable condition.


About the Author
Marcela Camargo headshot

Marcela joined News4JAX in 2023. She grew up in Mexico and eventually moved to California to pursue her dream of becoming a journalist. Now, she is a proud San Diego State University alumna who has many years of experience in TV and digital journalism.

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