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OPD K9 death details emerge

Posted at 10:45 PM, Jan 24, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-24 23:48:00-05

One day after a standoff ends with gunfire and a police dog dead, KMTV is learning more about the man accused of shooting and killing that OPD K-9 unit dog.

The Douglas County Sherriff’s office said 59-year-old Mark L’Heureux faces multiple charges. Deputirs say they found 3 fully automatic handguns, 1 semi-automatic handgun, 2 rifles, a shotgun and 2 revolvers.

On Sunday it was a much quieter and calm scene after the marathon standoff lasting more than 24-hous. Neighbors say they’re still on edge after what happened.

 “It was scary--very scary,” said neighbor Sue Chadwell.

Deputied tried to serve a mental health order to L’Heureux Friday evening, on Sunday, police say he shot and killed 9-year-old Kobus.

“Put his life in front of this person, I don't know--it's just sad,” said Chadwell.

Laying in the front yard of the house on 83rd and Keystone Drive is a bouquet of flowers with a note reading,
“Thanks for your service Kobus, Rest in Peace.”

“I felt so bad for it, so I was glad to see the memorial here for the poor dog,” said Chadwell.

Police said Kobus was with the department since 2008, his handler was Officer Matthew McKinney.

OPD Chief Todd Schmaderer said in a statement, “The loss of our K-9 brings great sadness to the Department and to his partner and handler...Kobus died in the line of duty in order to protect the lives of sworn law enforcement."

Omaha mayor Jean Stothert called Kobus a hero, saying the city’s K-9 do more than police work, they’re part of their family.

While there’s no more missions for Kobus-his legacy lives on.

OPD said Kobus was about to go into retirement in the next few months. There is a go-fund me page to help with expenses for Kobus’ funeral. Donations will pay for training equipment and more police dogs.

http://firstrespondersomaha.org/k9kobus/