I have covered police departments many times in my journalistic career and the culture of looking out for each other is very important within the public safety community. Any police officer will tell you that a K-9 unit is part of that family of public servants. The dogs become a part of the department and the police officer’s family.
That’s why Fishers Police and the entire local community have been saddened by the death of K-9 Harlej at the age of 5 years. Harlej died in the line of duty, trying to stop a suspect and died.
It all happened just after midnight early Wednesday morning. A Fishers officer attempted to stop a Cadillac passenger car traveling northbound on Interstate 69 in the city of Fishers. The driver refused to stop and exited the interstate onto Southeastern Parkway. A pursuit of the vehicle ended near the intersection of 131st Street and Olio Road. The driver ran from the car while the female passenger was taken into custody. Officers established a perimeter and an extensive manhunt began.
During the search for the suspect, a Fishers K-9 Officer saw the suspect. According to police, the suspect refused commands to stop and K-9 Harlej was deployed. Shortly after, the officer heard a gunshot and K9 Harlej went missing. After several hours the suspect was taken into custody. He was transported to an area hospital where he received medical treatment for a minor leg injury. Both suspects were transported to the Hamilton County Jail without incident.
According to a news release from Fishers Police, Harlej was later found with a fatal gunshot wound.
The driver of the vehicle involved has been identified as Richard D. Garrett Junior, 19 of Indianapolis. He faces a long list of charges, including several felonies.
Police say his passenger was Rashaana L. Farrow, 19, also of Indianapolis. She is charged with one misdemeanor and also has warrants for her arrest in Marion County.
Both were booked into the Hamilton County Jail.
Several area law enforcement agencies responded to assist Fishers Police.
If anyone wishes to make a donation in Harlej’s honor, you may do so with the Fishers Police Foundation at this link, or visit police headquarters in person