Emotional farewell to beloved San Ramon police K9

SAN RAMON, Calif. (KTVU) - The San Ramon Police Department is remembering a beloved member of the force, a police K9 named Hector.

In a Facebook post on Sunday, Interim Chief Craig Stevens wrote, "It is with tremendous sadness that I announce the passing of SRPD K9 Hector."

He went on to described the dog as a loyal partner that worked alongside Officer Al Molien for the past 6 years.

The dog was put down Sunday morning after an emotional procession in which members of the department honored the 7-year-old canine, as he was escorted to a veterinary clinic.

Hector was diagnosed with cancer several months ago and underwent chemotherapy.

He returned to duty last month, but the cancer returned and progressed quickly, according to police officials. 

"He served not only the San Ramon community, but the community of Contra Costa County as well," Interim Chief Stevens wrote, adding, "Hector was truly a staple of the San Ramon Police Department and he will be greatly missed."