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Veteran cop James Muhlbauer, K9 'Champ' and pedestrian die as vehicle crashes into Kansas City police car

The pedestrian and the K9 were pronounced dead at the scene, while veteren police officer James Muhlbauer died later at a hospital

KANSAS, MISSOURI: A vehicle crashed with a Kansas City police cruiser on Wednesday, February 15, killing a police officer, a police dog, and a pedestrian, according to Missouri authorities. As per the Kansas City police press release, the officer was on patrol when the crash occurred.

The officer has been identified as James Muhlbauer, a 20-year-old veteran with Kansas Police Department, and the police dog as K-9 Champ. The driver, who struck the cruiser, suffered minor injuries and was taken into custody, police said.

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Pedestrian and dog died at the scene

The pedestrian and the dog died at the scene, while the officer died at a hospital. Kansas City police said that K9-Champ was with the KCPD for one year and lived with Muhlbauer and his family. Sharing that they were hurt, they said in a news release and tribute which they also posted on Facebook.  

Officer Mulhbauer was married and a father

"Rest In Peace, Officer James Muhlbauer and K-9 Officer Champ," KCPD wrote in a news release. "The partners were killed in the line of duty Wednesday night when a vehicle crashed into them while they were on patrol," they said, adding, "Muhlbauer was a 20-year veteran of KCPD, while K-9 Champ was with us for one year." Sharing, "We're hurt." The police said, "K-9 Champ lived with Muhlbauer and his family. Mulhbauer was married and a father. Please pray for them."

Senator Jerry Moran said, "Saddened to hear of the death Kansas City Police Officer James Muhlbauer last night in the line of duty, and his K-9 partner Champ and a pedestrian who also passed away at the scene. Their families and loved ones are in my prayers."

With police revealing the identity of the officer and police dog, shocked internet users are reacting to the post paying tributes and mourning the tragic loss. "Oh, this is horrific! We are so sorry for your loss and sending our love to everyone involved and touched by this!," wrote one. "Very tragic. Sending support and warmth to the family and the department," another user wrote. One said, "R.I.P., Jim. Thank you for your years of service to our community." One more wrote, "Prayers to @kcpolice, officers' family, friends. Thank you for your service."

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