KATHLEEN, Fla. — Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said the K-9 deputy involved in the shooting in Kathleen is expected to lose a leg and is being forced into retirement.
On August 6, Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) said K-9 "Ace" was injured during a deputy-involved shooting in the Kathleen area.
Sheriff Grady Judd said Angel Bowers, 27, failed to appear in court on a charge of unlawful sex with a minor.
Sheriff Grady Judd provides update on shooting
A bondsman tried to locate Bowers and called deputies for backup.
Bowers was located in a tent in a wooded area on Rushing Road in Kathleen.
Sheriff Judd says Bowers fired at deputies and struck K-9 Ace. The K-9 was shot in the leg.
Deputies returned fire.
"Our K-9 almost bled to death before we could get him medical care. We returned fire. We shot into the tent. Angel Bowers got exactly what he asked for," said Sheriff Judd.
Bowers was pronounced deceased. Sheriff Judd said it was a gunshot wound to the head that killed Bowers.
WATCH: Polk County deputy-involved shooting in Kathleen leaves suspect dead, K-9 injured
Authorities said the K-9 was being treated at an emergency veterinary clinic in Lakeland before being airlifted to a clinic in Lakewood Ranch. Judd said Ace is in surgery Friday afternoon. He is expected to lose his leg and be forced into retirement.
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