Died – 12/21/23
K9 killed in Stonington officer-involved shooting
Video – escort – https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1817435065351706
A Connecticut State Police dog died Thursday night and a person was injured as a result of an officer-involved shooting on Mechanic Street in Pawcatuck.The incident happened at about 7:30 p.m. when police tried to serve a felony warrant out of Norwich at a residence near the intersection with Palmer Street across from the former Yardney mill.“K9 Broko courageously gave his life protecting his handler, fellow troopers, and our community,” Connecticut State Police Interim Col. Daniel Loughman said in a statement Friday morning.Police also reported serious injuries as a result of the incident. Residents on social media said the suspect shot at police first, but several details have not been confirmed.On a video posted to the Pawcatuck Community Forum by user Deije Ahearn, a state trooper can be heard loudly saying through the bullhorn “Vaughn Malloy, this is state police with a warrant. Come to the front door with your hands up and nothing in your hands!”The name could not be immediately confirmed, but a Vaughn T. Malloy, whose last known address was 401 Thames St. in Norwich, has two active warrants that were issued in May 2022, one for several motor vehicle infractions and failure to appear in court, and the other for evading responsibility, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license and second-degree failure to appear.Immediately after the trooper’s calls through the bullhorn, residents in the area reported that a flurry of gunshots were heard. According to published reports, state police confirmed that one person was taken to L+M Hospital in New London with serious injuries, but it was unclear early Friday whether the injuries were sustained by an officer or the suspect.Police said there is no ongoing threat to the public, and the Office of the Inspector General has been notified.Broko was a graduate of the 218th Connecticut State Police Patrol K9 Class in January 2021 and was a member of the Connecticut State Police Search and Rescue team. The dog and his handler were assigned to Troop A in Southbury and most recently to the Connecticut State Police K9 Unit.“K9 Broko heroically served with unwavering dedication, saving lives by locating missing individuals, apprehending dangerous suspects, and providing a steadfast shield to his handler. K9 Broko ultimately sacrificed his life doing what he was known best for,” the statement continued. Broko “was not just a loyal companion; he was a hero in every sense, embodying the values of courage, loyalty, selflessness, and the highest standards of the Connecticut State Police. His sacrifice will forever be etched in our hearts, and never be forgotten.”State Police posted on social media in February 2021 that Broko had received a bullet and stab protective vest through a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.Early Friday, a procession of State Police and local police vehicles departed from the Stonington police station, providing an escort for the dog.