Chico remembered among 23 fallen police dogs
JEFF B. FLINN
Managing Editor
Boerne police Sgt. Pete Moncada will travel to Washington, D.C., next month to pay a final tribute to “his pup,” Chico, a 5-year-old K-9 officer killed in the line of duty last year.
Nearly two dozen dogs assigned to police units that perished while in service to their communities will be honored at the “We Remember the K-9 Heroes” ceremony May 11 at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, held during National Police Week. The National Police Dog Foundation sponsors the annual event.
Chico died April 10, 2025, when the door of a patrol vehicle unexpectedly opened following Moncada’s and Chico’s activity at a crime scene.
Chico left the vehicle along Interstate 10, where he was fatally struck by another auto.
“Remember the K-9 Heroes” will feature a wreath- and rose-laying ceremony to honor the memory of 23 fallen K-9s.
“K-9 Chico was more than a member of our department. He was a dedicated partner, a protector and a symbol of the strong bond between our officers and the animals who serve alongside them, said Police Chief Steve Perez.
“To have Sgt. Moncada represent K-9 Chico in Washington, D.C., during National Police Week is both a tremendous honor and a meaningful opportunity to ensure Chico’s service and sacrifice are recognized,” Perez added.
Chico, a Belgian Malinois- German shepherd mix, was inducted into the Boerne Police Department in 2023, following the retirement of his predecessor, Tucker, which the Moncada family still has.
Chico received a hero’s memorial service locally on May 6, 2025, officers said.
When Moncada stepped to the mic, emotions got the better of him.
“He was my pup,” was all Moncada could muster before a waving gesture ended his effort to speak.
Perez said K-9s play a vital role in law enforcement, from detecting narcotics and locating suspects to protecting officers and enhancing public safety.
“They are highly trained, loyal partners who face the same dangers as the officers they serve beside,” Perez said. “We are proud to see Chico honored among the best, and we stand with Sgt. Moncada and his family as they represent Boerne and Chico’s legacy with dignity and pride.”
“He was my pup.”
— Boerne police Sgt. Pete Moncada
Comment
Comments