First responders from across the region pay respects to fallen York K9 officer

Nitro passed away after a man claiming to have a gun and stole a police vehicle crashing it into another car and a train

YORK, Neb. (KLKN) – People from across York came out to pay respects and honor fallen York K9 officer Nitro as a procession of first responders passed by.  Nitro passed away after a suspect in a traffic stop stole the police car and crashed the vehicle into another car and an oncoming train.

The procession started in Omaha and made its way down I-80 through Lincoln and passed Seward into York County.  The first responders drove underneath a giant American flag hung from a truck as they made their way into the Hathus Convention Center parking lot.

Emergency personnel came from across Nebraska and the region.  There were officers here from different states, including Missouri.  York sheriff Paul M. Vrbak was at a loss for words at the outpouring of support for his department and fallen K9.  He said, “It means so much for us, for somebody to drive here from out of state to support my department… what do I say? I’m kind of speechless at this point, but you know very proud.”

He also explained departments from far across the country, specifically he mentioned Baltimore, MD. sent cards and well wishes for the department, the officer who lost his K9 companion, and Nitro.

Vrbak says he and the department are working with the officer to make sure he is ok and has all the time he needs to mourn the loss of his partner.

The department held a community candlelight vigil at the courthouse later in the evening.