Vaughn Malloy, Wanted for Multiple Crimes, Shot Dead by Police in Stonington; K9 Broko Also Killed

On December 23, 2023, a tragic incident occurred in Stonington, Connecticut, that resulted in the deaths of Vaughn Malloy, a 32-year-old suspect wanted for multiple crimes, and K9 Broko, a 4-year-old police K9 who was assisting in the pursuit. According to the Connecticut State Police, the incident began around 9 p.m. when Stonington police officers attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Malloy, who had outstanding warrants for assault, robbery, and burglary.

Malloy refused to stop and led the officers on a high-speed chase that ended in a wooded area near Route 184. Malloy then exited the vehicle and fled on foot into the woods, armed with a handgun. The officers requested backup and a K9 unit from the Groton Town Police Department. Broko, a Belgian Malinois who had been with the department for two years, was deployed to track down Malloy.

As Broko approached Malloy, the suspect opened fire and fatally wounded the K9. The officers returned fire and also fatally wounded Malloy. Both Malloy and Broko were pronounced dead at the scene. No officers were injured in the exchange of gunfire.

Who were the victims?

Vaughn Malloy was a resident of New London, Connecticut, who had a criminal history dating back to 2010. He had been arrested several times for charges such as assault, robbery, burglary, larceny, drug possession, and violation of probation. He was also a suspect in a recent shooting that left a man critically injured in New London on December 18. He had multiple warrants for his arrest at the time of the incident.

CT K-9 Broko killed in the line of duty in Pawcatuck. The suspect Vaughn Malloy who lived in this house on Mechanic Street has also died. #wfsb pic.twitter.com/66pbVvNB3q

— Susan Raff (@SusanRaff1) December 22, 2023

Broko was a loyal and courageous police K9 who had served with the Groton Town Police Department since 2021. He was trained in patrol, narcotics detection, and tracking. He had participated in numerous successful operations and had received several awards and commendations for his performance. He was partnered with Officer Ryan McDermott, who described him as his best friend and family member. Broko was also beloved by the community and the department, who mourned his loss and honored his sacrifice.

How did the authorities and the public react?

The Connecticut State Police are conducting an investigation into the officer-involved shooting, as per protocol. They are collecting and analyzing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing body camera footage and dashcam footage. They are also conducting autopsies on Malloy and Broko to determine the exact cause and manner of death. The results of the investigation will be submitted to the State’s Attorney’s Office for review and determination of whether the use of force was justified.

The Groton Town Police Department issued a statement expressing their grief and gratitude for Broko’s service and heroism. They also thanked the Stonington Police Department, the Connecticut State Police, and the other law enforcement agencies and emergency services that assisted in the incident. They asked the public to respect the privacy of Officer McDermott and his family during this difficult time. They also announced that they will hold a memorial service for Broko in the near future, with details to be released later.

The public also showed their support and sympathy for Broko and his handler, as well as the other officers involved in the incident. Many people left flowers, cards, toys, and flags at the Groton Town Police Department and the Stonington Police Department. Some also donated money to the department’s K9 fund or to local animal shelters in Broko’s name. Others expressed their condolences and appreciation on social media, using hashtags such as #RIPBroko, #BackTheBlue, and #K9Hero.

What are the implications and challenges of the incident?

The incident highlights the dangers and challenges that police officers and K9s face every day in the line of duty. It also raises questions and concerns about the use of force, the accountability of law enforcement, and the rights and safety of suspects and civilians. Some of the issues and questions that may arise from the incident are:

• How effective and ethical are the policies and procedures for police pursuits, K9 deployment, and use of force?
• How transparent and independent are the investigations and reviews of officer-involved shootings?
• How reliable and accessible are the sources of information and evidence for the public and the media?
• How can the police and the community build trust and cooperation to prevent and reduce crime and violence?
• How can the police and the public honor and support the fallen officers and K9s and their families?

These are some of the topics that may warrant further discussion and research in the aftermath of the incident.

The officer-involved shooting that killed Vaughn Malloy and Police K9 Broko in Stonington was a tragic and complex event that had a profound impact on the lives of many people. It also raised important issues and challenges for the law enforcement and the society.

As the investigation and the review of the incident continue, it is hoped that the truth and justice will prevail, and that the lessons and solutions will emerge. It is also hoped that the memory and legacy of Broko, the brave and loyal K9 who gave his life in the service of his community, will be honored and remembered.