“I have had pets all my life and never thought I could have a stronger connection,” Sgt. Smith also spoke at Friday’s service, saying he’s been a police officer for 24 years, but it took him 23 years to find his purpose as a member of the K-9 unit. The pair were partners on the road after going through extensive training at the same time. Brandon Smith and the German Shepherd worked and lived together.

A procession was held two days later, as Bingo’s body was brought out in a Canadian flag-draped casket to a waiting police SUV. Kenneth Grant, 44, was charged with second-degree murder for fatally shooting Bingo on July 24. He was taken to a hospital with serious injuries. After the interaction with Bingo, police shot the suspect. The province’s police watchdog said a man allegedly fled a property, shot at officers and was later tracked down in a nearby backyard. RELATED: ‘Every handler’s worst fear:’ Former K9 officer details bond between dogs, handlers “A dog that demonstrated that he, too, could serve and protect alongside some of the best police officers in the country - members of the Toronto Police Service.” “Bingo will forever be remembered as the amazing police service dog he was,” Demkiw said. Toronto police chief Myron Demkiw spoke at the memorial service at the Woodbine Banquet Hall. The two-year-old German Shepherd was shot while responding officers were looking for an armed suspect in Etobicoke.

“Bingo” of the K-9 unit was killed in the line of duty in July.

Hundreds of Toronto police officers gathered on Friday to remember a special member of the local police service.

Police officer bingo