When the call for help came, K-9 officer Rocky, a one-year-old Belgian Malinois serving with the U.S. Marshals Service, was ready to answer the call for protection and service. On January 15, 2025, during a high-stakes manhunt in Houston, Texas, Rocky showed unflinching bravery as he pursued a dangerous fugitive connected with the tragic death of Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Vargas. Critically injured in the line of duty, Rocky has shown resilience and spirit, being an inspiration to many and a symbol of courage that has captured the hearts of dog lovers everywhere.
The tense manhunt unfolded along Stella Link Road after authorities identified Robert Lee Davis III, a fugitive with a history of violent crimes, as the suspect in Deputy Vargas’s fatal shooting. As officers searched for Davis, Rocky, a highly trained tracker, led his team to a dumpster where the fugitive hid. The moment was fraught with danger.
Upon the dumpster’s opening, Davis fired and hit Rocky twice: once in the neck, once in the snout. Officers immediately returned fire to neutralize the threat. This was at great risk to his own life but served to prevent any further harm.
That was a gut-wrenching moment: bloodied but alive, Rocky was whisked to safety. The injuries were grave: one bullet pierced his left nostril, another rested in his neck and jaw, passing inches from his spine, but miraculously did not hit vital organs.
Veterinarians at Westbury Animal Hospital, who would later refer to him as “the luckiest dog” they’d ever treated, immediately set to work stabilizing Rocky. He was saved by emergency transport via helicopter, quick surgery, and round-the-clock care. His medical team repaired his wounds, provided oxygen support, and kept him comfortable during those critical first hours.
In fact, a day after his surgery, Rocky got up and began to walk with his head held high, to everybody’s surprise; he also did not need any assistance in having his meals. His progress so far has been remarkable, evidence of the hardy will and fine care he received since then.
“We couldn’t be more hopeful,”
U.S. Marshal T. Michael O’Connor said.
“Rocky is an incredibly resilient dog, and his bond with his handlers is impenetrable. He is a true warrior.”
The outpouring of support has been tremendous: letters, donations, messages from all parts of the country by dog lovers are all flooded, rooting for the full recovery of Rocky.
While Rocky’s road to recovery may be long, officials are hopeful he will return to service. His bravery in the face of danger has inspired his fellow officers and countless fans who admire the dedication of working dogs.
The bond between Rocky and his handler, who has been working with him on this case, has grown incredibly strong.
“He is so much more than just a partner in the family.”
he said
“The fight for his life hits home on why we do what we do.”
