Anaheim stands in memory of Bruno
ANAHEIM, Calif. (May 18, 2016) – The entire city of Anaheim stands with the Anaheim Police Department today in honoring and remembering retired K-9 officer Bruno, who died this morning from complications related to injuries sustained in the line of duty in 2014.
Bruno was an Anaheim hero who inspired millions around the world for his bravery and crime-fighting skills. His training helped Anaheim Police officers apprehend criminals and keep residents safe.
“I want to join Anaheim Police and the community in remembering Bruno for what he did in protecting those he fearlessly served – the people of Anaheim,” Mayor Tom Tait said. “Without hesitation, Bruno was an example of how our police dogs run to danger rather than from it. He touched the hearts not just of dog lovers but everyone in Anaheim.”
Bruno’s likeness was the inspiration for the recently unveiled K-9 monument at La Palma Dog Park. “Valor” is a life-sized bronze statue honoring all K-9 officers and the work they do alongside their human partners.
Later this summer, a second K-9 monument, “Vigilance,” will be unveiled at the forthcoming Olive Hills Dog Park in east Anaheim.
In March 2014, Anaheim Police officers were conducting a probation check when the suspect opened fire. The suspect fled, posing an immediate danger to the community and children playing outside.
Bruno located the suspect hiding in a trash can and was shot, sustaining life-threatening injuries.
The bullet entered, shattered and passed through his lower jaw, and re-entered his chest narrowly missing his heart. Numerous surgeries were performed. Two months later, veterinarians released Bruno to go home.
Bruno officially retired during a special ceremony at the May 13, 2014, City Council meeting. His handler, Officer RJ Young, provided Bruno a new “job” – watching over the family’s young children. Bruno accepted his new assignment with pride and determination.
Bruno’s story spurred widespread community support and launched him to the top of the news. Media outlets from around the world told the story of the importance of law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners.
In Anaheim, a campaign to raise funds for the K-9 monuments began. Fundraising events were held, including the initial event before an Angels Baseball playoff game in the fall of 2014. Residents rallied to give money, while children gave their dollars and pennies to contribute to the cause. Council Member Kris Murray led the volunteer group and Kash for K-9s was born.
“Bruno not only protected our community but brought us together through his courage and selfless sacrifice,” Murray said. “My heart is broken and goes out to Bruno’s family and the Anaheim Police family. Bruno will forever remind us of the perils our officers face in keeping our community safe.”
Kash for K-9s has raised more than $45,000, including a $25,000 donation from Visit Anaheim. The K-9 monuments are fully funded by community donations.
Anyone wishing to pay respects to Bruno can do so by visiting the city’s K-9 monuments page.
For more information on the City of Anaheim, please visit Anaheim.net.
ABOUT ANAHEIM -The City of Anaheim, founded in 1857, is one of the nation’s premier municipalities and is one of California’s most populous cities. Anaheim covers 50 square miles with more than 351,000 residents and more than 2,900 City employees. The municipal corporation’s annual budget is $1.7 billion. Anaheim supports a thriving business community with companies such as: Carl Karcher Enterprises, Inc.; L-3 Communications; Pacific Sunwear; and Disneyland Resort. Successful sports franchises call Anaheim home, including: Angels Baseball; Anaheim Ducks; the U.S. Men’s National Volleyball Team, and the 2012 Olympic Games Silver Medal winning U.S. Women’s National Volleyball Team. Anaheim also boasts world-class meeting and entertainment venues with: The Anaheim Convention Center, LEED-certified and the largest on the west coast; Honda Center; City National Grove of Anaheim; Anaheim GardenWalk; Angel Stadium of Anaheim; and ARTIC (Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center). In addition, Anaheim embraces its vibrant cultural arts community, including the world-renowned Anaheim Ballet. Annually, Anaheim welcomes more than 25 million visitors to the City, truly making it where the world comes to live, work and play. For more information, please visit www.anaheim.net.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Ruth Ruiz, Public Information Officer, City of Anaheim
(714) 765-5060 office, (714) 420-7797 mobile