A dog park was dedicated Tuesday to Duke, a revered San Joaquin County Sheriff’s K-9 that was fatally stabbed during the arrest of a barricaded burglary suspect two years ago.
The sheriff’s K-9 force — dogs and their handlers — and a bevy of public officials turned out to officially open Duke’s Dog Park, a new 2.5-acre park at 355 Summit Dr. in Tracy.
“Duke’s Dog Park honors the courage, loyalty, and service of K-9 Duke,” said Acting Tracy Police Chief Miguel Contreras in a statement. “It stands as a lasting reminder of his dedication and the important role K9 officers play in protecting our community.”
County Supervisor Robert Rickman also honored Duke.
“This park will forever carry his name, a symbol of service and the bond between our deputies and their K-9 partners,” he said on social media.
The sheriff’s office said Duke was being honored for courage and devotion before giving his life in the line of duty on Feb. 19, 2023.
“His courage and devotion will never be forgotten. Now, countless families and their dogs will walk under his name, learn his story, and remember his sacrifice,” its social media post says. “We are humbled and grateful that his spirit of loyalty and service will continue to inspire our community for generations to come.”