UAPD Mourns Loss Of Longtime Explosive Detection Dog Boomer

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama Police Department (UAPD) is mourning the loss of retired K9 Boomer, a longtime explosive detection dog whose nearly decade-long career made him a familiar and trusted presence across campus and in the community.

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UAPD announced Friday that Boomer died following a brief, sudden illness. Department officials said the difficult decision was made to euthanize Boomer to prevent further suffering.

Boomer joined UAPD in 2016 as an explosive detection dog and spent nearly 10 years serving alongside officers and helping protect the university community.

During his career, Boomer logged more than 30,000 hours of service at the University of Alabama, athletic venues and other locations throughout the region.

In a statement, UAPD described Boomer as more than a working police dog, calling him a trusted partner, protector and constant presence for those who worked with him.

His career was marked by resilience as he continued serving despite multiple health and injury setbacks, including cancer, several snake bites and the loss of a toe.

"Through it all, he never lost his energy or enthusiasm," UAPD said.

Officers remembered Boomer as playful, energetic and dedicated to his work.

"To those who knew him best, Boomer was hyper, playful, sometimes a little annoying — but always loyal, always dependable, and always ready to work," the statement said.

The department also expressed condolences to retired Field Training Officer Patrick Hinkle and his family, who cared for Boomer after his retirement in April.

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