Retired K-9 who helped locate 6 missing children, 83 wanted suspects passes away

WOODS CROSS, Utah (ABC4) — A retired Woods Cross Police K-9 has passed away after serving the department for 10 years and locating nearly 90 people during his career.

According to a press release from the Woods Cross Police Department, Ranger is remembered for his “remarkable nose, loyal heart, and unwavering dedication.”

During his 10 years with the police department, he covered more than 173 miles to help look for wanted or missing individuals. Ranger helped officers locate six missing children and 83 wanted persons. He assisted more than 30 different law enforcement agencies in Utah while on the job.

After Ranger retired from the police department, he “traded his harness for sunny days of well-earned rest,” Woods Cross says. He dutifully watched over his neighborhood: greeting schoolchildren getting off the bus and warning his family about every passing delivery truck.

Ranger passed away on Oct. 23, 2025, after a retirement filled with “love, treats, and the comfort of family.” Woods Cross Police Department says he will be deeply missed, but that his legacy will live on for those who worked with him.

“Though his paws and bay are no longer with us, Ranger’s spirit will forever lead the way — a lasting reminder of courage, devotion, and unconditional love,” the Woods Cross Police Department writes. “Rest easy, Ranger. Your watch has ended. We’ll carry your memory in our hearts, and your legacy will forever guide our path.”