The Maine State Police are mourning the loss of a valued member. Preacher, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, was killed during a tactical team operation in Portage on February 3.

The incident stemmed from a domestic dispute involving 29-year-old Steven Righini, who shot an Aroostook County deputy, according to Fox News. This escalated into a standoff, prompting the deployment of the Maine State Police tactical team. After several hours, Preacher was sent in to apprehend Righini, who shot the K-9 in the abdomen. In response, his handler, Sergeant Jonathan Russell, and specialist Andrew Hardy returned fire. Righini was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Most people will never understand the sacrifices made by our K-9 teams.”

Preacher was taken to an emergency veterinary clinic in Presque Isle, where he underwent emergency surgery. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries early the following day. According to a statement from the Maine State Police, Preacher was surrounded by Sergeant Russell and several members of the tactical team when he passed.

Preacher became an official police canine in the fall of 2023 when he and Sergeant Russell attended the MSP’s Canine Patrol School. The two carried out patrol duties in the greater Southern Field Troop area and served as members of the MSP Tactical Team. Preacher was eulogized in the agency’s press release by Colonel William Ross.

“K-9 Preacher was more than just a working dog — he was a dedicated partner, a protector, and a hero,” Ross said. “Most people will never understand the sacrifices made by our K-9 teams, but last night, Preacher made the ultimate sacrifice to protect others from harm.”