TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – A Tombstone Deputy Marshal was forced to shoot and kill his K-9 partner Hawk after the dog attacked him, according to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office.

CCSO said it happened early Tuesday morning at the Tombstone Marshal’s Office.

Deputy Marshal John Cody said he was working with Hawk when the K-9 attacked him.

“Cody advised that the K-9 latched onto his leg and would not let go, causing serious ankle/leg injuries,” CCSO said in a statement. “Deputy Marshal Cody was able to enter the bathroom and partially close the door in an effort to get the K-9 to disengage from the bite.”

CCSO said Hawk wouldn’t let go and Cody was forced to shoot him.

Hawk died at the scene and Cody was taken to a Tucson hospital for treatment of his leg injuries.

Cody is off duty on medical leave during the investigation.

“We appreciate our K-9 program and handlers,” said Tombstone Marshal Jim Adams. “We are confident that the Sheriff’s Office will complete a thorough and objective evaluation of this unfortunate incident.”

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