An investigation now launched within the CNMI Department of Public Safety after two K9s died after being left in a hot patrol car on September 8. On Friday, a private funeral was held for Boss and Beni outside of DPS. But the cause of death was only revealed when KUAM News asked DPS how two police dogs suddenly passed away.

DPS told KUAM News that the deaths were “accidental” after the dogs were “left inside a patrol vehicle and the aircon died…blowing hot air.” They said they were left in the car for about 30 minutes as officers were inside DPS to secure drugs that they seized that same morning. The investigation is ongoing.

Representative Ed Propst is one of the legislators behind the CNMI’s animal cruelty law. He spoke with DPS Commissioner Anthony Macaranas about the incident.

“We need to let this investigation run its course. I can't condemn the police officers without hearing the full, the whole side of the story. I mean, it is it is a tragedy. But from my understanding, initially, that this was not intentional by any means. And from my understanding, the police officers also grieve the loss of these service animals. They, you know, of course, are heavy in their hearts for what happened. So I think about that as well, you know, how do you measure the punishment when it comes to this,” said Rep. Ed Propst. 

A tsunami of public outrage online with over 200 comments on KUAM News social media pages criticizing DPS and demanding accountability.

In a statement Monday afternoon, Commissioner Anthony Macaranas acknowledged the tragedy and said “Our top priority is uncovering the facts surrounding this loss.”

KUAM News spoke with a visiting vet from New York Dr. Melissa Salgado at the Saipan Humane Society clinic about the dangers of leaving pets inside cars.

“Signs to look for if your dog is overheating and developing heatstroke is that they're going to be panting excessively. They might have vomiting and diarrhea. They might seem to stress or can't get comfortable. And they could even have weakness or collapse,” said Dr. Melissa Salgado. 

Saipan Humane Society Director of Clinical Services Ruby Ma says the organization is also here to help if anyone finds their pet in a similar situation and shares this message.

“Thank you so much for their service. At the same time sorry for the loss of DPS and our community,” said SHS Director of Clinical Services, Ruby Ma.