08/06/2026
🙏🐾 PRAY FOR APPA: KOOTENAI COUNTY SHERIFF OFFICE K9 APPA FIGHTING FOR HIS LIFE AFTER BEING SHOT DURING SWAT RESPONSE
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office says K9 Appa is currently fighting for his life after being shot Tuesday night during the armed-suspect response near Wolf Lodge Creek Road and East Alder Creek Road.
Deputies responded at approximately 8:20 p.m. after reports of a suspicious armed man who had contacted children in the area.
According to KCSO, the suspect pointed a firearm at a deputy before fleeing. Appa tracked the suspect while the Kootenai County Regional SWAT Team responded. The suspect fired several rounds, striking and injuring Appa.
Several minutes later, a deputy-involved shooting occurred, and the suspect was later pronounced deceased. The Idaho State Police is conducting the independent investigation.
KCSO shared the following update:
“Our hearts are heavy as we share that K9 Appa is currently fighting for his life.
Please keep K9 Appa, his handler, and everyone involved in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.
Thank you for your continued support of our deputies, K9 Unit, and the entire Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.”
Please stop for a moment and pray for Appa, his handler and everyone at the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.
Keep fighting, Appa. Our entire community is behind you.
🐾 DONATIONS FOR APPA AND THE K9 PROGRAM
Members of the public interested in donating to K9 Appa, the KCSO K9 program or the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office as a whole may contact:
Lieutenant Zachary P. Sifford #2366
Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office
Patrol Division
2451 W. Dakota Ave.
Hayden, Idaho 83835
208-446-2245
KCSO has a 501(c)(3) available for those seeking to make tax-deductible donations.
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