Fallen Wake County K-9 honored at National Police K-9 Memorial Ceremony

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – K-9 Santos of the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, who died in the line of duty nearly a year ago, was honored Saturday at the National Police K-9 Memorial Service in Washington, DC

Santos’ caregiver, Master Deputy Maria Fuentes, placed a rose at the memorial in honor of her partner.

K-9 Santos died in May 2023 after being accidentally shot by a Knightdale police officer while helping Knightdale police track down a suspect.

An emotional deputy, Fuentes, described Santos as more than just a partner.

“Santos was my best friend, a great partner, and he was a family friend, and my whole family loved him because he was sweet,” she said, wiping away tears. “He was a sweet boy, 85 pounds.”

Santos joined the Wake County Sheriff’s Office in 2016. He was the longest serving K-9.

The National Police Dog Foundation organized the annual National Police K-9 Memorial Service. This year’s service, held at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, honored law enforcement K-9 troopers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2023.