SALINE COUNTY —There have been recent social media posts in reference to the tragic passing of Salina Police K-9 Officer Tyrann which are absolutely untrue.
In order to be transparent, the Salina Police Department wished to make the public aware of the situation in a timely manner even prior to completing a thorough investigation.
Officers were in the location for a recruiting advertisement when the K-9 Handler allowed Ty out of the vehicle to relieve himself. This location was very familiar to Ty and his Handler which had been used on multiple occasions for training.
Ty went around a parked vehicle and his Handler went to check on him and discovered the tragedy. Ty was never placed on the ledge or asked to get on the ledge.
It is possible Ty heard the noise from a parade down below and was attempting to see where it was coming from and jumped over the wall. Ty was highly trained, but still a dog.
Ty was a respected and beloved member of the Salina Police Department and no member of this department would ever place him in a needlessly dangerous position. His loss has greatly affected the Salina Police Department and the community he valiantly protected every day. The Salina Police Department wishes to thank the community for their support and condolences while we grieve and navigate this devastating event.