BUNNELL, Fla. — Sheriff Rick Staly and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office are saddened to announce the passing of K-9 Kyro due to an unknown medical issue. Kyro passed away on Oct. 14, 2025. He was 2 years old.
On the afternoon of Oct. 14, Master Deputy Marcus Dawson, Kyro’s partner, was overseeing the training of a new K-9 team. While Master Deputy Dawson was overseeing the training, Kyro was inside of his patrol vehicle, which is equipped with a properly functioning air conditioner and heat alarm that transmits a distress signal to the K-9 handler should a mechanical issue occur. During a routine break, Master Deputy Dawson returned to his vehicle and found Kyro unresponsive. All K-9 and vehicle protective systems were on and functioning at the time.
Master Deputy Dawson immediately transported Kyro to an emergency veterinary clinic, where staff performed lifesaving efforts. Unfortunately, despite their exhaustive efforts, Kyro succumbed to an unknown medical issue.
The passing is under investigation, and a necropsy will be conducted to determine the exact nature of Kyro’s medical issue. All FCSO K-9s receive regular check-ups by the Agency veterinarian
“We are deeply heartbroken by K-9 Kyro’s passing,” said Sheriff Staly. “Our K-9s are not just working dogs, they’re trusted partners to their handlers and beloved members of our Sheriff’s Office family. I ask everyone to keep Master Deputy Dawson, and everyone at FCSO, in your thoughts and prayers. K-9 Kyro’s dedication and loyalty exemplified the very best of public service. As we mourn this tremendous loss, I ask that our community join us in honoring his memory and selfless service to the residents of Flagler County.”
Kyro, a German Shepherd, was born on December 13, 2022. He joined the agency in August 2024 and was trained as a dual-purpose K-9 in both patrol and narcotics detection. During his short career, he aided in arresting 37 subjects, helped in the detection and seizure of 65 grams of illegal narcotics, and located 25 items of drug paraphernalia.
He will be greatly missed.
Funeral arrangements and further details will be released when available.
