Community Honors K9 Diesel’s Service
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – This morning, the Chattanooga Police Department escorted K9 Diesel to the Animal Hospital of Signal Mountain, where he was humanely euthanized.
Diesel, three years old, was injured in the line of duty on September 15, 2025.
He was stabilized on scene by a Tactical Paramedic with K9 training and transported to the Veterinary Care and Specialty Group for emergency surgery.
Despite those efforts, veterinarians determined his injuries would leave him with a severely diminished quality of life.
After careful review and multiple consultations, the decision was made to humanely euthanize him.
Diesel had served the Chattanooga Police Department since April 2024 alongside his handler.
The pair recently won first place in the “Suspect Boxes Search” event at the USPCA Region 22 K9 trials, highlighting Diesel’s skill and commitment to service.
As part of today’s ceremony, Girl Scout Troop 40837 dedicated a rainbow bridge in Diesel’s honor.
Officers crossed past the bridge during the procession and prayed nearby to pay their respects.
Diesel is remembered as a trusted partner to his handler, a valued member of the CPD K9 Unit, and an important part of the department’s service to Chattanooga.
