Chattanooga Police Department announces passing of K9 Buck

Courtesy: Chattanooga Police Department

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) announced the passing of one of their K9’s, Buck.

On September 23, 2025, K9 Buck experienced gastrointestinal upset, and his handler noticed he appeared lethargic.

His handler brought him to his primary care veterinarian who referred him to a specialist after observing significant abnormalities.

The CPD said it was determined that Buck was experiencing septic peritonitis which progressed to Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) – a life-threatening complication with an extremely high mortality rate.

Unfortunately, K9 Buck did not survive despite all measures to save his life.

K9 was 2-years-old at the time of his passing.  He had served with the CPD for just over a year.

K9 Buck was trained in explosives and firearms detection.

“Our K9 partners are part of our family, both within the department and in the homes of their handlers.  Saying goodbye to them is never easy, but losing two in one week is truly heartbreaking. As we mourn the loss of our trusted partners, K9 Buck and K9 Diesel, we also honor their lives and contributions to keeping Chattanooga safe.”

– Chattanooga Police Chief John Chambers

K9 Buck loved family vacations and to swim when given the chance.