Greenville, North Carolina, September 5, 2025
News Summary
The East Carolina University Police Department has introduced a new K-9 officer named Brixi following the tragic loss of K-9 Officer Santonio Catoe. Catoe, who passed away after being struck by lightning, was mourned by the police force and the community. A ceremony honoring his dedication to service was held, while Brixi is expected to continue building strong community relationships in Catoe’s honor.
Greenville, North Carolina – East Carolina University Police has announced the addition of a new K-9 officer named Brixi, bringing renewed purpose to the police force amid the recent passing of K-9 Officer Santonio Catoe. Catoe tragically died after being struck by lightning during a fishing outing with his son on April 11, marking a sad chapter for the department and the community known as Pirate Nation.
K-9 Officer Santonio Catoe was just 39 years old when he lost his life near Jacksonville’s North East Creek Park. The lightning incident occurred in the evening, knocking Catoe overboard. Quick actions from fellow anglers, including his son, TJ, ensured he was rescued. Despite the efforts of emergency medical personnel, Catoe was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
In remembrance of Catoe’s service and dedication, a ceremony was held by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction at Eastern Correctional Institution on April 17. Catoe was highly regarded for his commitment, energy, and the strong connections he developed with both colleagues and K-9s. His engaging spirit and the mutual respect he commanded from those around him left a lasting impact on the community.
Catoe served as a K-9 handler at Eastern Correctional Institution and was also a proud Marine Corps veteran. He is survived by his wife, a 9-year-old son, TJ, a 5-year-old daughter, Maya, and two stepchildren. A GoFundMe page was created to assist his family, highlighting his role as a devoted father. Catoe’s death has been noted as the first recorded lightning-related fatality in the United States for the year 2023.
The police department’s introduction of K-9 Brixi comes at a crucial time as they mourn this significant loss. The new K-9 officer is expected to continue the legacy of service and community engagement that Catoe exemplified. The department is hopeful that Brixi will help forge strong bonds within the community as Catoe did during his service.
In related news, another K-9, named Sam from the Lexington County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina, recently passed away from a heat-related illness during training. K-9 Sam, a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois, had only entered service earlier this year and shared a close bond with his handler, Deputy McKenzie Saunders. Following Sam’s distress during training, the sheriff’s office is reevaluating its K-9 training procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of their officers.
Additionally, K-9 Skully, who retired from the East Carolina University Police Department last year, also recently died due to an intestinal illness. The losses within the K-9 community are deeply felt, emphasizing the vital role these animals play within law enforcement and community service.
FAQ
What is the purpose of K-9 Officer Brixi at East Carolina University Police?
K-9 Officer Brixi serves as a new addition to the law enforcement unit, expected to uphold community safety and continue the legacy of K-9 Officer Santonio Catoe.
How did K-9 Officer Santonio Catoe pass away?
K-9 Officer Santonio Catoe died tragically after being struck by lightning while fishing with his son.
What honors were paid to Santonio Catoe?
A remembrance ceremony was conducted by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction in recognition of Catoe’s notable service and dedication.
What support is available for Catoe’s family?
A GoFundMe page has been established to offer financial assistance to the family left behind by Catoe.
Have there been other incidents involving K-9 officers recently?
Yes, K-9 Sam from South Carolina recently succumbed to a heat-related illness during training, prompting a review of K-9 training protocols.
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Additional Resources
- Corrections1: N.C. Corrections K-9 Officer Killed in Lightning Strike While Fishing with Son
- Wikipedia: K-9 Unit
- WYFF4: Lexington County K9 Dies from Heat During Training
- Google Search: K9 Officer Training Procedures
- WCTI12: Community Gathers at Eastern Correctional to Honor Fallen K-9 Officer Santonio Catoe
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Canine
- WCTI12: ECU Community Mourns the Loss of Retired K9 Skully Due to Illness
- Google News: K9 Officer Honors
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