K9 Hurricane Dies at 16

K9 Hurricane, a Belgian Malinois and former special operations canine with the United States Secret Service, has died at the age of 16. Known for his bravery, Hurricane was the most decorated dog in US history, earning numerous awards for stopping a White House intruder in 2014, while President Barack Obama and his family were inside.

Due to injuries sustained during the incident, Hurricane was medically retired in 2016. His heroic efforts earned him several prestigious awards, including the USSS Award for Merit, the DHS Award for Valour, the PDSA Order of Merit, and AMC Top Dog. He was also the first dog to receive the Animals in War and Peace Distinguished Service Medal, landing him a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Hurricane and his handler, Officer Marshall Mirarchi, received the Secretary's Award for Valour from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson, for their role in safeguarding the Obama family. After his retirement, Hurricane's legacy continued through Hurricane's Heroes, a foundation created in his honor to help cover medical costs for retired working dogs. Since its launch in 2020, the foundation has supported over 150 retired military and government canines.

Officer Mirarchi remembered Hurricane, saying, "As much as we knew this time was coming, there was no way to prepare. We miss him so much. [He's left] a huge hole that can never be replaced." A statement from Paws Of Honour, a service dog veterinary care charity, added, “Hurricane, you were not just a remarkable service dog, but a symbol of courage, dedication, and unwavering service. Your tenacity, commitment and strong will allowed you to stand up to the greatest test of strength an emergency response team K9 can face.”