BREAKING: A police dog named Rocco was violently thrown from a vehicle following a serious crash involving a reckless 19-year-old driver in a high-powered Mercedes on the Tullamarine Freeway in Melbourne earlier today. This alarming incident occurred as Rocco and his handler were en route to work, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers.
The unmarked police vehicle was struck, sending it airborne and flipping over a barrier. “That they’ve both got out of the vehicle relatively unscathed is nothing more than a miracle to be quite honest,” stated Acting Senior Sergeant Mark Boysen. The dramatic collision took place at approximately 11:00 AM local time and involved significant force, described by Boysen as having opened the back of the car “like a can opener.”
During the chaotic aftermath, Rocco was ejected onto the freeway, prompting immediate concern from his handler. Despite sustaining injury himself, the handler’s first instinct was to check on Rocco. Fortunately, a passerby secured the dog before he could wander further into danger. “He saw him out on the freeway and thankfully a passerby had gotten to him and secured the dog, which we’re really grateful for,” Boysen added.
The reckless driver, who was unlicensed, and his 21-year-old female passenger sustained injuries in the crash. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. Rocco was scheduled to assist in a search for accused killer Dezi Freeman next week, and was also to participate in the K9 unit’s 50-year celebration. Instead, he will be resting at home, enjoying some well-deserved time off.
“He was as keen as anything to get out of the vets, pulling on the lead,” Boysen noted. “The ferocity with which he wanted to get out that door about an hour or two ago showed me that his head’s in a really good space.”
This incident underscores the risks faced by police animals and their handlers in the line of duty. As investigations continue, further updates are expected regarding the driver’s legal consequences and Rocco’s recovery. Stay tuned for more developments on this urgent story.
