Connecticut State Police K9 killed, along with shooter, as troopers attempted to serve an arrest warrant on suspect

PAWCATUCK, CT - A police canine and a suspect are dead in a shooting in this small hamlet in southeastern Connecticut as Connecticut State Police troopers attempted to serve an arrest warrant, ABC News reported. 

"K9 Broko, a member of the CSP Search and Rescue Team, was killed while attempting to protect his handler," a state police spokesperson said. 

The spokesperson said state police arrived at a home on Mechanic Street at around 7:30 pm Thursday to serve a felony arrest warrant held by the Norwich, Connecticut Police. 

“An officer-involved shooting occurred as troopers attempted to serve these warrants, and serious injuries have been reported,” an initial state police release said. 

The Connecticut Inspector General’s office identified the suspect as Vaughan Malloy, who was shot and killed by troopers, WFSB-3 in Hartford reported. 

The Connecticut State Police issued the following statement:

It is with a heavy heart that Interim Colonel Loughman announces the line of duty death of our beloved canine, K9 Broko, in Pawcatuck, Connecticut, on December 21, 2023. K9 Broko courageously gave his life protecting his handler, fellow troopers, and our community. 

K9 Broko was a graduate of the 218th Connecticut State Police Patrol K9 Class in January 2021 and was a very well-respected member of the Connecticut State Police Search and Rescue team. K9 Broko 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. 

K9 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. 

We extend our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support from our community, as well as from fellow law enforcement agencies and first responders throughout the state and region. Your outpouring of sympathy and solidarity during this difficult time has been a source of strength for those closest to K9 Broko and our department. 

In honoring K9 Broko’s memory, we recognize the vital role he played in keeping the State of Connecticut safe. May his legacy inspire us all to continue the important work of protecting and serving with the same level of dedication and valor. 

–Connecticut State Police

The records showed the probation violation was related to a conviction for violation of a protective order, which is issued in domestic violence cases. That conviction required two years of probation. The failure to appear charges stemmed from motor vehicle violations, including evading responsibility by leaving the scene of a car crash. 

ABC News reached out to several public defenders listed as previously representing Malloy however, no calls were returned. 

It is unknown if anyone else suffered injuries in the shooting, which remains under investigation.

After news of K9 Broko’s death reached area police departments, an escort of scores of police vehicles was seen escorting the CSP cruiser carrying the dead hero K9 from the scene.