OGDEN, Utah — A young police dog in training with the Weber County Sheriff’s Office died on Saturday due to an unexpected medical condition, officials confirmed.
K-9 Nova, who was just under two years old, passed away while participating in a narcotics detection training course. Authorities did not disclose the specific cause of death but described the incident as sudden and unforeseen.
Nova joined the department in November 2024 and had been training in narcotics detection. According to the sheriff’s office, she showed great potential and promise in the program.
In a public statement shared on Sunday, the sheriff’s office expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Nova as a beloved member of both the department and her handler’s family.
Deputy Nielsen, Nova’s handler, was said to have cherished her deeply and treated her like family. The department extended condolences to him and to others who worked closely with Nova.
“Thank you for your service, Nova. You will forever remain part of our family and will never be forgotten,” the statement concluded.