JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A K-9 that works for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was rescued from an SUV that caught fire Monday afternoon in the area of the golf course at the Cecil Commerce Center on the Westside, the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department said.
According to JFRD, the ATF K-9, named Bane, was left in the vehicle with the engine running, and the vehicle caught fire. ATF Special Agent in Charge Daryl McCrary said Bane was alone in the government vehicle for a short period of time, which he said was normal.
Firefighters said they were able to rescue Bane and then transport the dog to an area veterinarian’s office for treatment. News4Jax was originally told the K-9 was badly burned, but McCrary later said Bane suffered smoke inhalation.
McCrary said Bane was in stable condition at last check. He said Bane stayed at the vet for observation overnight and was again observed Tuesday morning before the K-9 went home.
The ATF vehicle sustained fire and smoke damage, and the windows of the SUV were broken out. ATF planned to remove the vehicle Monday.
It’s unclear what started the fire, but local ATF agents told News4Jax that it was an accidental fire. The city fire marshal, the state fire marshal and an ATF agent that specializes in fire investigations are all investigating the cause.
Aerials from the Sky 4 helicopter showed other K-9 units in the area of the golf course, but McCrary declined to disclose why ATF was there.
Some viewers expressed an interest in sending gifts for K-9 Bane. Any gifts can be sent to:
ATF Jacksonville Office
ATTN: ATF Canine Bane
5210 Belfort Pkwy
Suite 350
Jacksonville, FL 32256