The Albemarle County Police Department (ACPD) announces the passing of K-9 Bella, who passed away from complications related to a medical emergency while being taken to a veterinarian on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

K-9 Bella, a 9-year-old bloodhound, joined ACPD in 2017. During her service with ACPD, K-9 Bella played an important role in tracking and search operations, helping locate missing and at-risk individuals, and the safe apprehension of fugitives. Over the course of nearly a decade, K-9 Bella responded to more than 100 calls for service, helped locate more than 20 missing or endangered individuals, and completed more than 2,500 hours of training. Beyond her operational work, K-9 Bella and her handler, Officer Mikesh, attended countless community events together.

"K-9 Bella helped keep the residents of Albemarle County safe and provided critical support to officers during searches in our jurisdiction and beyond. The Albemarle County Police Department commends K-9 Bella for her dedication to our mission and extends its deepest condolences to Officer Mikesh and his family during this time. We ask our community to keep them in their thoughts and respect their privacy as they grieve," said Colonel Sean Reeves, Chief of Police.