ALEA says K-9 has ‘unexpected’ medical emergency, dies on way to hospital

ALEA announced that on Tuesday, K-9 Matyko suffered an unexpected medical emergency and died while being transported by his handler to a veterinary hospital in Huntsville. Matyko was 7 years old, the agency said.

K-9 Matyko began his service journey with ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division in 2019. ALEA said that throughout Matyko’s career, he served in several regions of the state. His first post was in the Gadsden area, then Montgomery and most recently, ALEA said Matyko served in the Decatur/Huntsville area.

“Matyko was more than a highly trained working dog, he was a trusted partner and valued
member of the ALEA family,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said. “He not only contributed to
countless successful operations, but he also built strong partnerships with local law enforcement
agencies in every community he served. We are grateful for his years of service to our Agency
and the citizens of Alabama.”

ALEA said while Matyko was on duty, he played an “instrumental role” in narcotics detection and interdiction efforts.

“He played an instrumental role in narcotics detection and interdiction efforts, assisting both ALEA and local law enforcement agencies in keeping dangerous drugs and firearms off Alabama’s roadways,” ALEA wrote.

Matyko’s death comes after the recent passing of K-9 Pici on August 2, who lost her battle to bone cancer.

“Both K-9s leave behind a proud legacy of service and dedication to protecting the citizens of Alabama,” the agency said.