Myrtle Beach Bids Farewell to Beloved K9 Officer, Yep
In a heartfelt moment that has left our community grieving, Myrtle Beach recently lost a true hero in the K9 unit. K9 Yep, a dedicated officer who served on the force for five remarkable years, passed away unexpectedly just a month after her retirement.
A Legacy of Service
Yep, who was just shy of her eighth birthday, made a significant impact during her time with the Myrtle Beach Police Department. She was a dual-purpose K9, meaning she didn’t just look adorable and patrol the streets—she was trained in various vital areas like tracking, narcotics sniffing, and article searches. In her career, she was involved in over 500 deployments and was responsible for more than 100 arrests, a testament to her skills and dedication.
The news of her passing was shared on the police department’s Facebook page, where they expressed profound sorrow: “For five dedicated years, K9 Yep served the Myrtle Beach Police Department… Thank you, K9 Yep, for your unwavering loyalty and commitment to our community and team.” What a beautiful tribute to a cherished friend and protector!
Remembering the Bond
Yep’s handler, PFC. Tyler Struckus, shared a close bond with her, expressing how integral she was to his work. “If it wasn’t for her, I probably wouldn’t have been the handler that I am,” he stated emotionally. The two experienced countless adventures together, from sniffing out drugs to locating crucial evidence in investigations, including homicide weapons!
Anyone who’s seen Yep in action knows she was not just a member of the police force but a beloved member of the community. From local events to everyday patrols, her friendly demeanor and dedication made her a recognizable face around town.
A Community in Mourning
Her unexpected passing has left many in our community with heavy hearts. The police department shared, “Our team and community share in the loss of Yep. Our K-9 program is an invaluable part of our team and family. Yep will be missed.” Chief Amy Prock also extended thoughts and prayers to Struckus and their entire unit.
As a way of celebrating Yep’s life and her dedication to service, many local residents are expected to come together to honor her legacy. From social media tributes to personal stories shared at local venues, it’s clear that she touched many lives—and she will not be forgotten.
Reflections on Loyalty and Community
We all have that one friend (or in this case, furry friend) who’s always ready to lend a helping paw. K9 Yep exemplified loyalty and bravery, qualities that resonate deeply with the values of not just our police department but our entire Myrtle Beach community. Her vigilant service kept our streets safer, and her sweet presence reminded us all of the love and dedication our local heroes possess.
As we say goodbye to K9 Yep, let’s carry forward her spirit of service and love in everything we do. She may be gone, but the memories and the impacts she left on all of us will live on. Thank you, Yep, for everything. You truly were one of a kind.
In times like these, let’s rally together and support one another in remembering the beautiful moments she brought to our lives. Myrtle Beach will always be grateful for her service.
