K9 Bear

It is with deep sadness that the Town of Hickory Creek announces the passing of K9 Bear, who lost his battle with cancer recently. His illness came without warning. Bear had shown no prior symptoms, and his decline was sudden, making this loss all the more difficult for his handler, our department, and the community.

He served alongside our Police Department from 2022 until his medical retirement in early March 2026, and during that time, he became something far more than a working dog. He became a part of who we are.

As a dual-purpose patrol and narcotics detection K9, Bear's service record was remarkable. In just a few short years, he built a legacy that will stand long after his passing. He completed 832 deployments, contributed to the seizure of more than 2,380 pounds of illegal narcotics, and located three vulnerable residents in need, including two missing children.

Bear was a genuine pioneer in his field, the first dog in recorded history to earn certification for distinguishing between hemp and marijuana odors through the American Working Dog Association. He went on to represent Team USA at the 2025 World Police and Fire Games, bringing home a Gold Medal in Detection and a Silver Medal in the K9 Biathlon. Hickory Creek was on that podium with him.

Statistics matter, but they don't capture everything. What made Bear special to this community was his presence. He sat with students at Founders Classical Academy. He stood with families at Thousand Hills Church. He showed up to city events and reminded people that public safety wears a face, sometimes a furry one with a badge on its vest. Alongside his handler, Officer Antommarchi, Bear was a genuine connection between this department and the people it serves.

Following his cancer diagnosis, Bear was honorably retired in early March 2026 and enrolled in the Project K9 Hero program. That organization provided him with compassionate, expert care during the most difficult season of his life, and we are grateful for their mission and the way they honored his service.

To Officer Antommarchi and the men and women of the Hickory Creek Police Department: thank you for the care and dedication you gave to Bear, and for the quiet, daily sacrifice you make for this town. We see it, and we are proud of you.

Rest easy, Bear. You served with honor, true partner.