LITHIA, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is mourning the loss of K9 Brooks, who died in an off-duty incident on Monday evening.
At approximately 9:30 PM, Master Deputy Charles Perdomo allowed K9 Brooks into his fenced backyard for a bathroom break. Investigators say Brooks managed to jump the fence and entered a wooded area behind the deputy’s residence.
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Around 10:00 PM, a neighbor on Amber Lane in Lithia discovered Brooks actively attacking his alpaca. Unaware that Brooks was an HCSO K9, the neighbor attempted to deter the attack by firing a shotgun. After an initial shot failed to stop the attack, the neighbor fired a second shot, fatally wounding Brooks.
The alpaca sustained a minor leg injury and is receiving veterinary care.
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“We are heartbroken over the loss of K9 Brooks, a dedicated and courageous member of our HCSO family,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The unbreakable bond between a K9 and their partner is like no other, making this loss even more heartbreaking. Our thoughts are with Deputy Perdomo and all those affected.”
The HCSO is conducting a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.
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