Wethersfield Police Release More Details on Police Dog Thor's Death in the Line of Duty

WETHERSFIELD, CT — Police Dog Thor died from a blood clot after he was seeming on the mend from injuries sustained while chasing a kidnapping suspect on Monday, police said.

Police have released more details on the incident.

On Monday, Wethersfield officers were called to a motel on the Silas Deane highway for the reported kidnapping of a woman out of Hartford, police said. Police were told that a woman was being held against her will.

As the officers approached the motel, someone fled on foot and a chase ensued into a wooded area, police said.

Police said they were told the suspect was armed, and according to protocol, Thor was released the officers spotted the suspect.

Shortly after, the officers lost sight of both Thor and the suspect but a resident called then called in to say the suspect was spotted in a back yard, police said. The resident did not see Thor, police said.

The suspect was arrested, and officers began looking for Thor, police said.

State troopers located Thor, who appeared to be badly injured with bleeding cuts from the forest branches and brambles, police said. He was immediately transported to a Middletown Animal Hospital.

Veterinarians said Thor was bleeding internally in addition to the surface cuts, police said.

Thor underwent blood transfusions and seemed to be getting better, police said.

The following night — Tuesday — his partner, Officer Nuno Martins, went to visit his partner and Thor stood up with excitement when he saw Martins.

Thor then collapsed and died instantly, police said.

Veterinarian said it was caused by a blood clot.

WPD Police Chief James Cetran said, "Thor was an "exemplary police dog" who had made eight "significant finds" for the department.

"One of his captures was last year when Thor actually captured two burglars after a really long track," thew chief said. "The suspects had broken into a clothing store on the Berlin Turnpike. It was such a phenomenal apprehension. He was an excellent canine and an excellent team member and this is really hard for us. It is horrific."

WPD Sgt. Jennie Rivera, Canine Unit Supervisor added, "Our deepest condolences remain with Officer Nuno Martins and his family during this difficult time, just as canine Thor’s courage in deeds will remain in our hearts."

Photo Credit: WPD