ST. GEORGE — Two weeks after being stabbed by a suspect who was then shot and killed by police, a K-9 officer is nearly ready to get back into the field.
The Hurricane Police Department issued a media release Tuesday containing the official statement of K-9 Riko’s handler, officer Eric DeMille, with information pertaining to the incident on Dec. 26. Police said 46-year-old Hurricane resident Jose Palacios Pascacio stabbed Riko before he was shot and killed by officers.
DeMille detailed his emotions at the time of the incident as well as the extent of injuries that Riko sustained while updating the rehabilitation and healing process for his canine partner.
According to the statement, DeMille said he had to make a “split-second decision.”
He said he knew the suspect had a knife and was conflicted about whether to send him. DeMille knew Riko was the only possible choice to slow the attacker enough to give the officers at the scene time to defend themselves and prevent others from injury or death.
“When Riko was attacked, It was a massive rollercoaster of emotions for me,” DeMille said. “Riko did his job and did not hesitate to do it.”
DeMille explained Riko was stabbed in the top of the neck by a large knife, which went downward towards his chest. Several veins, a couple of arteries and his trachea were all cut. He was bleeding profusely on the scene of the incident, and DeMille said Riko’s body was bloating.
First responders arrived on the scene and were able to quickly transport him to the emergency veterinarian at the Southwest Animal Emergency Clinic, who was able to do surgery and stop the bleeding. During the surgery, DeMille was told of the possibility of Riko having his leg amputated due to the artery retracting into the socket.
“The vets working on Riko 100 percent saved his life and leg,” DeMille said.
St. George Police Department K-9 Enzo donated blood to help stabilize Riko enough for the dog to be transported to the Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Center in Las Vegas. DeMille was told Riko would not have survived without the blood transfusion.
Last week, Enzo was recognized by the City of St. George and Washington City for his achievements as well as “going up and beyond” by donating blood to Riko.
Within a couple of hours after being woken up, Riko stood and walked around.
Riko was able to return home on Dec. 29, and has since been doing well.
“Riko has been spoiled with a new bed, more free time around the house, and so many treats/bones that were given to us,” DeMille said.
DeMille reported Riko is anxious to get back to work, he got the green light from his veterinarian on Jan. 3 to do just that. Riko is not back on regular patrol yet but is training for that moment, sniffing out narcotics. The veterinarian believes he will be able to return to patrol after his next check-up appointment, when his stitches will be removed.
In a Facebook post, Hurricane Police Department released a video of Riko training and playing with DeMille.
“Riko has been a part of my family for over four years, and this last couple weeks has been very difficult,” DeMille said. “I am so thankful for Riko’s speedy recovery, and that I don’t have to work without him. Him being with me gives me and my family more comfort. He is loved by the whole family.”
DeMille was surprised by the amazing support they have received from the communities within Southern Utah and beyond the area. Riko has received treats, bones, stuffed animals, toys, blankets and more.
DeMille said he is constantly asked how Riko is doing and they are following his recovery.
“I really want to say thank you to the support that has been shown,” DeMille said. “It has been incredible. My family and I are also very thankful for the care that Riko was given, and that he is making such a fast and good recovery. We wouldn’t know what to do at home and at work without him.”
Those wishing to make donations to help with Riko’s medical costs may do so via the Hurricane City Recreation Department’s website.
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