GRPD K9 Eli released from animal hospital

Photo Credit: Grand Rapids Police Department

(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.) The Grand Rapids Police Department K9 who was stabbed during a standoff last weekend is recovering at home. 

Several members of the Grand Rapids Police Department gathered in the parking lot of the Animal Emergency Hospital to greet K9 Eli as he walked out.

During Sunday's standoff, Eli received multiple stab wounds and a punctured lung. 

He has bandages and stitches, but he will be recovering at home with GRPD Officer Justin Kribs and his family. 

“On behalf of Officer Kribs, the K9 Unit, and all the men and women of the Grand Rapids Police Department, I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of support, prayers, and well wishes," said Chief Eric Winstrom. "We received hundreds of messages from the community, other law enforcement agencies, and K9 support organizations across the country. We are extremely grateful to the veterinarians and staff of the Animal Emergency Hospital for their expertise and care. With the severity of his injuries and the significant blood loss he experienced, it is truly a miracle they were able to save Eli.”

The GRPD is not sure if Eli will be able to return to duty yet. 

If K9 Eli cannot work again, he will retire and Officer Kribs and his family will take over ownership and have Eli live with them as a beloved pet. 

Terry Junior Warren, the suspect in Sunday's standoff was charged Wednesday with multiple felonies including Causing Serious Injury to Police Animal.