Saugus Police K-9 Officer Dying From Cancer Honored With 'Final Ride'

SAUGUS (CBS) – Saugus police honored a beloved K-9 officer with a special ride.

"Bruin" was recently diagnosed with untreatable cancer and had taken a turn for the worst in the past few days.

So on Thursday morning, a police procession involving about 30 cruisers escorted the 9-year-old German Shepherd through town for a "final ride."

Bruin served with the Saugus Police Department since 2011. He was the narcotics partner of Officer Timothy Fawcett.

"K9 Bruin loved patrolling the streets of Saugus and department personnel are honored to provide him with one final ride by his favorite spots," the Saugus Police Patrol Officer's Union said.

Bruin made over 100 visits to local schools and events and had a special place in the heart of the community. Officers and school children lined the streets Thursday, holding signs, waving and saluting as a police cruiser carrying Bruin drove by. The final stop on the procession route was an animal hospital.

At the hospital, other K9 officers saluted Bruin and an emotional Officer Fawcett brought his partner inside.

Shortly after the procession, the police department announced that Bruin had died.

"There's was a very unique relationship, a very tight bond," said Interim Police Chief Ronald Giorgetti. "K9 Bruin was like a member of the family. I know that Officer Fawcett is greatly appreciative of everyone that participated and everybody that came out in the community of Saugus."

A memorial for Bruin will be held in the coming weeks.