Portland Police K9 Escape Handler's Yard, Bites 2 People In Happy Valley

A Portland Police Bureau K-9 was removed from patrol after escaping his handler's fenced yard and biting two people Friday afternoon (March 12), according to KPTV.

Police said the incident happened off-duty in Happy Valley, Oregon while a couple was walking their dog. The K-9 bit both people, and the couple's dog did not appear to be injured, officials added. Investigators said the dog may have broken through a piece of fencing and got free in the neighborhood.

Happy Valley police officers, Happy Valley Code Enforcement and paramedics responded to the incident, according to reporters. HVPD and Code Enforcement are investigating the incident.

The K-9 handler notified a PPB K-9 unit supervisor per policy, and an internal investigation has been launched, police said. Officers said the K-9 will remain out of service until the investigation concludes. The dog was also secured, kenneled and quarantined, police added. K-9 unit trainers will also be assessing the dog, according to authorities.

Deputy Chief Chris Davis also said this about the incident:

"The Portland Police K9 Unit and the Bureau regret this unfortunate incident. This appears to be an isolated event. K9 officers provide a valuable service to community safety and have a good safety record. Part of the ongoing internal investigation will determine if any additional training or procedural changes need to be made to avoid this type of incident from happening again."

Photo: Getty Images