Beloved Firehouse Dog, Riggs, Dies After Going Missing in Texas

The Midlothian Fire Department in Texas is mourning the loss of Riggs, their cherished firehouse dog, who was found dead after going missing from the station. The department announced the tragic news on May 6th, confirming that Riggs had been struck by a vehicle.

"It is with heavy hearts that we share Riggs has been located. Sadly, he was struck by a vehicle and did not survive," the fire department stated in a Facebook post. The news has deeply saddened the community, which had rallied in support of the search for the missing canine.

Riggs was reported missing on May 2nd, prompting an immediate search effort. The fire department reached out to the public for assistance, sharing that their "beloved firehouse dog has gotten out from Fire Station 1." The circumstances surrounding Riggs’ escape remain unclear, but the department indicated that he was last seen heading towards the highway on station cameras around 2:45 p.m. A passerby reported seeing him near the on-ramp around 3:00 p.m.

The fire department’s call for help resonated with the community, who quickly mobilized to aid in the search. Local residents shared information, organized search parties, and spread the word through social media, hoping for Riggs’ safe return. The outpouring of support underscored the deep bond between the fire department and the Midlothian community, as well as the special place Riggs held in their hearts.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the fire department offered a reward of $1,000 on May 3rd to anyone who could safely return Riggs. As the search continued without success, the reward was increased to $2,500 on May 5th, reflecting the department’s unwavering commitment to finding their beloved companion.

Carrie Butterfield, a professional dog handler, and her tracking dog, Bullet, joined the search efforts on May 4th. Butterfield and Bullet meticulously tracked Riggs’ scent, but were only able to follow it from the fire station to approximately 200 yards away near Highway 287. The limited scent trail suggested that Riggs may have quickly moved out of the immediate area, potentially disoriented or frightened by the traffic and unfamiliar surroundings.

Despite the collective efforts of the community, the fire department, and professional trackers, Riggs remained missing for several days. The uncertainty surrounding his whereabouts weighed heavily on the firefighters, who considered Riggs to be more than just a station dog – he was a part of their family.

The news of Riggs’ death has been met with an outpouring of grief and condolences from the Midlothian community and beyond. The fire department’s Facebook post announcing his passing has garnered hundreds of comments and shares, with people expressing their sympathy and offering words of support. Many have shared their own stories of beloved pets and the unique bond they share with their human companions.

"While this is not the outcome we had hoped for, we are incredibly thankful for the overwhelming support from our community," the fire department acknowledged in their Facebook post. They expressed their gratitude to everyone who had assisted in the search efforts, demonstrating the strength and compassion of the Midlothian community.

"Riggs was more than just a station dog — he was part of our family. We will miss him deeply," the post continued. The firefighters’ profound sense of loss is palpable, highlighting the special role that Riggs played in their lives.

Assistant Fire Chief Phillip Brancato told USA TODAY on May 7th that Riggs had been with the department for almost three and a half years. He shared that Riggs was rescued as a young pup by a crew member from the roadside south of Midlothian. The firefighters took Riggs in and provided him with a loving home at the fire station, where he quickly became an integral part of their team.

Fire Chief Dale McCaskill told CBS News Texas that Riggs was like a part of their family. "He’s always excited when (firefighters) return back from a call," McCaskill said. "Anybody that owns a dog knows they meet you at the door with the same enthusiasm every time, and so that’s been a relief for our firefighters after a stressful call."

Riggs’ unwavering enthusiasm and unconditional love provided a source of comfort and support for the firefighters, who often face challenging and emotionally demanding situations. He offered a sense of normalcy and companionship, helping them to de-stress and reconnect after difficult calls.

The loss of Riggs has left a void in the hearts of the firefighters and the Midlothian community. His memory will live on as a symbol of loyalty, companionship, and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals.

The Midlothian Fire Department has not yet announced any plans for a memorial service or tribute to Riggs, but it is likely that the community will come together to honor his life and legacy. His presence will be deeply missed at the fire station, but the memories of his playful spirit and unwavering affection will continue to inspire and comfort those who knew him.

The tragic story of Riggs serves as a reminder of the importance of pet safety and the need for drivers to be vigilant, especially in areas where animals may be present. It also highlights the vital role that animals play in our lives, providing companionship, emotional support, and unconditional love.

The Midlothian Fire Department concluded their Facebook post with a heartfelt message: "Thank you again, Midlothian, for standing with us." Their words express the department’s deep appreciation for the community’s unwavering support during this difficult time. The outpouring of love and compassion has provided a measure of comfort as they grieve the loss of their beloved firehouse dog, Riggs.