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Died – 9/25/20
Handler – Officer Rich Buhowski
Toms River Police K-9 Gunnar Dies
The Toms River Police Department is mourning the death of one of its K-9 officers, who died unexpectedly on Friday. K-9 Officer Gunnar, who had been retired from active duty in January, died at home “unexpectedly but peacefully,” the police department said in a Facebook post. He was 9 years old. Gunnar, who lived with his handler, Officer Rich Buhowski, and Buhowski’s family, was given an honorable send-off, taken by ambulance from his home to the veternarian’s office. “During his final patrol, he was surrounded by family and escorted by members of our K-9 unit,” the post said. At the veterinarian’s office, K-9 Gunnar and Buhowski were met by numerous K-9 handlers and their partners from surrounding jurisdictions, who came out to show their support for Gunnar, Buhowski and his family, as well as the Toms River police department. K-9 Gunnar started his career Jan. 28, 2013 in the Toms River Canine Academy where he became a certified patrol canine. He became certified in narcotics later that year. “While in training, K-9 Gunnar was one of the top dogs of the class and easily excelled at any task he was asked to do,” the post said. He made numerous narcotics finds and helped keep officers safe while on the road. “K-9 handlers form inseparable bonds with their partners and this unexpected passing is difficult for Officer Buhowski and his family. Our hearts are with all of them,” the post said.
