x
Breaking News
More () »

Vernon Police mourning the loss of K-9 Thor

The 8-year-old police dog served with Officer Bryan Sembersky for seven years. Thor died on Saturday from an autoimmune disorder and pneumonia, officials said.
Credit: Vernon PD

VERNON, Conn. — The Vernon Police Department announced Wednesday the passing of K-9 Thor.

The 8-year-old police dog was a Belgian Malinois/German Shepherd mix, who served with Officer Bryan Sembersky for seven years. 

RELATED: South Windsor K-9 officer Mason saves the day

Thor died on Saturday from an autoimmune disorder and pneumonia, officials said. Sembersky was at his side.

According to a release, Thor was born in Slovakia and brought to the United States to train with Sembersky as a patrol and drug detection dog. The duo was nationally certified.

“The bond formed between a police dog and its trainer is very special,” Mayor Dan Champagne said. “I hope the community will join me in remembering Thor for his service to our community and offering our condolences to Officer Sembersky and the entire police department.”

Credit: Vernon PD
Vernon Police Officer Bryan Sembersky and K-9 Thor at Vernon’s National Night Out in August 2021.

Sign up for the FOX61 newsletters: Morning Forecast, Morning Headlines, Evening Headlines

Thor was successful at many things including tracking, searching, finding articles and evidence, apprehending criminals, locating, and handler protection.

The beloved K-9 was a valuable member of Vernon PD, according to Police Chief John Kelley.

Kelley added that Sembersky and Thor had multiple successes in tracking suspects and finding drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine.

RELATED: ‘I remember it like it happened yesterday’ | CT TSA director recalls responding to Ground Zero after 9/11 attacks

---

Have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com

---

HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS 

Download the FOX61 News APP 

iTunes: Click here to download 

Google Play: Click here to download 

Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61. 

Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download. 

FOLLOW US ON TWITTERFACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM 

Before You Leave, Check This Out