By Ciara Perez, Senior Multimedia Correspondent
iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published August 7th, 2026
Previous coverage: Polk County K9 Shot, Armed Suspect Killed in Lakeland Officer-Involved Shooting
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POLK COUNTY, Fla. — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has released a difficult update on K9 Ace after the law enforcement canine was shot during a deadly encounter in Lakeland Thursday night.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Ace underwent surgery following the shooting, and the procedure went well. However, the injuries to his front left leg were so severe that veterinarians were unable to save it. The leg had to be amputated.
Despite the devastating injury, officials say Ace is currently in stable condition as he begins what will likely be a significant recovery.
Ace is being treated at the Veterinary Medical Center at Lakewood Ranch in Bradenton, where veterinary staff have been caring for him since the shooting.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office also announced that the Wiltse Family Trust has offered to cover the cost of Ace’s veterinary treatment in Bradenton.
Standing beside Ace throughout the ordeal has been his partner and handler, Deputy Natalie Oestreich. According to PCSO, Oestreich has remained by Ace’s side since he was shot.
The shooting occurred during an officer-involved incident on Rushing Road in Lakeland. Authorities previously identified the armed suspect as 27-year-old Angel Bowers, who was killed during the encounter. All deputies involved were reported safe.
The 10th Judicial Circuit Officer-Involved Deadly Incident Task Force is investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
While Ace now faces a new reality without his front left leg, the latest update brings some encouraging news: he survived the shooting, made it through surgery, and is stable.
Source: Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
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