The man who shot and killed the Shepherdsville Police Department’s K-9 Officer has been identified and charged.
Kentucky State Police said the suspect, 23-year-old David J. Knopp, of Shepherdsville, has been charged with attempted murder of a police officer, assault on a service animal, first-degree wanton endangerment, and fleeing or evading police (on foot).
The charges stem from an incident on the evening of March 9 when troopers responded to an officer-involved shooting at the Dollar General store in Lebanon Junction, at 11900 South Preston Highway just west of I-65.
State police said the preliminary investigation indicated that officers were responding to a shoplifting complaint at the Dollar General when an officer made contact with Knopp, who was standing outside the store armed with a firearm.
Knopp began shooting at law enforcement, police said, and then fled on foot. Shortly after, Shepherdsville PD K-9 Dash located the suspect hiding nearby. Upon Dash attempting to restrain Knopp, he shot and killed the K-9.
Shepherdsville police and the Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office returned fire, striking Knopp multiple times. He was transported to University of Louisville Hospital where he remains. He is listed in stable condition.
Dash, a Belgian Malinois, served for five years with the Shepherdsville PD.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
