Hawaii Police Department Mourns Loss of K9 Archer After Tragic, Preventable Death

The West Hawaii Police Department is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Archer, a 6½-year-old Belgian Malinois and German shepherd mix who died on September 4 after being left inside a hot patrol vehicle for what officials called an “unacceptable” amount of time.

Archer had served with the department since 2021, after arriving from Hungary to join the vice section’s narcotics unit. He was more than just a working dog—he was a trusted partner, protector, and beloved member of the police family. Interim Police Chief Reed Mahuna described the tragedy as entirely avoidable, emphasizing:

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“Dogs should not be left unattended in a vehicle for any period of time.”

The incident has left Archer’s handler devastated, and both a criminal and administrative investigation are underway to determine accountability. The department has also pledged to review and strengthen its K9 handling procedures to ensure nothing like this happens again.

Chief Mahuna used the moment to highlight a broader warning for the public. Even in shaded parking areas, with cracked windows or water left inside, vehicles can heat rapidly to lethal levels for pets. “Hundreds of dogs die each year being left unattended in vehicles, and that number is surely much higher as many cases are never reported,” Mahuna explained.

Archer’s death has shaken the entire unit, but the outpouring of community support has offered comfort during this difficult time. Officers remembered him as a loyal partner whose service and spirit will not be forgotten.

His story now serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibility we carry in caring for working animals—and for all pets—by protecting them from preventable harm.