By NATE KING
Salina Post
Earlier today, Tuesday, October 8, a memorial service was held at Sacred Heart Cathedral to honor the life and service of Salina Police Department (SPD) K-9 Officer Tyrann, who passed away following an accidental fall on September 18, 2024.
Ty was an active and faithful public servant, serving the SPD since February 2021. The ceremony, attended by law enforcement, K-9 units, community members, and public officials, reflected the significant role K-9 officers have within police work.
During his time with SPD, Tyrann apprehended 13 suspects, tracked and located 12 suspects, conducted 14 article searches, five building searches and 11 recovered firearms. In addition, Ty located 7.13 pounds of methamphetamine, 2.85 ounces of cocaine, 12.1 grams of mushrooms, 2,488 dosages of Fentanyl, 18.1 grams of Heroin and 62.22 pounds of marijuana.
READ MORE: UPDATED: SPD releases details regarding death of K-9 Officer Tyrann
The service began with a solemn procession of K-9 officers and their handlers from the surrounding area. Tyrann's former fellow K-9 officers' wagging tongues and panting breaths filled the Sacred Heart Cathedral sanctuary. Handlers and K-9 officers were allowed to pay their personal respects to Ty.
Father Schmeidler of Sacred Heart Cathedral, 118 N. Ninth Street Salina, offered an opening prayer, asking for comfort and healing for the Salina Police Department and the community during this time of loss, while also celebrating Ty's life.
Special Agent Austin Baker delivered the eulogy, recounting Tyrann's years of service and noting Ty's courage and commitment to his duties. Baker reflected on how K-9s like Tyrann are more than just working animals; they are partners who serve as vital components of police work.
"Tyrann was more than just a K-9 officer. He was a partner, confidant, steadfast companion and member of our family," Baker said. "Together, we could face anything, knowing our purpose was to serve and protect. Ty did so with unmatched loyalty and courage."
Baker also shared that Ty was named after former Kansas City Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu.
SPD K-9 Officer Chandler, Tyrann's second handler, shared a deeply personal tribute, reflecting on their unique bond and partnership in the field. Chandler said he deeply appreciates the Salina community for keeping SPD and his family in their thoughts and prayers during this time.
Salina Police Chief C.J. Wise expressed gratitude for the community's ongoing support and to Sacred Heart for hosting the event to memorialize Ty.
"I want to thank our department. We have some of the best men and women that I have ever had the pleasure to work with," Wise said. "One of the big things that sticks out to me with this department is resiliency."
Wise continued saying the job of a police officer is not easy, and there are peaks and valleys. He closed his remarks in prayer.
"Dear heavenly Father, we thank you for this beautiful day. Help us to always remember that we are here to serve you," Wise prayed. "Bless all our families and our department and help us through the peaks and valleys. No matter what we are always here to serve. Bless and keep us walking in integrity to do the next right thing."
Chief Wise emphasized K-9 officers' critical role in ensuring public safety and the immense contribution Tyrann made during his time with the department.
The ceremony concluded outside the cathedral with a series of ceremonial honors. Local piper Terry Ferguson played bagpipes, filling the autumn air with a somber melody of "Amazing Grace" followed by Salina Central High School Freshman Dominic Brosi performing taps on the trumpet.
The service ended with a traditional last radio call, a final salute to K-9 Officer Tyrann's service. Tyrann's memory will remain a lasting symbol of loyalty, service, and protection within the Salina Police Department and the wider community.
We will not forget his contributions to our community.