Rockford police remember K-9 officer Nyx for loyalty and selflessness in the line of duty

By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Rockford police on Saturday laid to rest K-9 officer Nyx, a 7-year-old police dog who was described as the embodiment of loyalty and selflessness.

Officers from the department and from police agencies around the state gathered at City First Church to celebrate Nyx’s life and contributions to the department. The service was also livestreamed by Grace Funeral & Cremation Services. Nyx, who was the department’s first ever female police dog, was killed in the line of duty on Jan. 28.

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Nyx joined the department in October 2018 and was handled by Officer Jon Vargas. Police leadership said the bond between the human officer and police dog was much deeper, blending partner, pet and companion.

“Those who have not experienced this unique partnership or bond firsthand might struggle to understand the depth of connection between the handler and the canine,” Sgt. Duane Johnson said during the service. “It goes beyond mere obedience or duty. It’s a mutual understanding. A silent language is spoken between shared glances and subtle little cues. The handler and the canine become an inseparable team.”

Nyx was fatally shot while the police dog and Vargas pursued a suspect in a domestic violence call. Malik Trotter, age 28, faces multiple charges in Nyx’s killing.

Police leaders said that Vargas and Nyx became a synchronized team during more than five years as partners, and they worked tirelessly in challenging and dangerous situations.

“A canine is more than just a tool or a resource. They’re a living and breathing embodiment of loyalty, courage and selflessness,” Johnson said. “Canine Nyx willingly placed her life on the line every day, not out of obligation but out of the love for her handler and the unwavering dedication that she had for Jon.”

The fierce and energetic Belgian malinois and shepherd mix was born on Aug. 7, 2016. Vargas and Nyx quickly bonded after crossing paths in September 2018 while he was searching for a canine partner.

Vargas asked that Saturday’s services be a true celebration of Nyx’s life and contributions, Sgt. Brandon Dillard said. Nyx aided in the apprehension of dozens of violent offenders, and she was the “main attraction” in countless public demonstrations at schools, church groups, sporting events and other gatherings.

“Nyx was always there with what looked like a smile on her face, like she knew that she was bringing joy to the community that she served,” Dillard said during the services.

Nyx could take commands in four languages, Vargas told a crowd of kids gathered at the Discover Center in July for a presentation during Superheroes Day.

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When Nyx was home and off-duty, she was a loving pet to Jon and Claudia Vargas.

“When she was off-duty she was known as a lover doggy,” the Rev. Paul Meyers, who officiated the services. “She was so much more than partner in law enforcement.”

Nyx received the same type of funeral honors that a human officer would receive, with the playing of bagpipes, a color guard, three-volley salute and end of watch call.

Police supporters had lined the streets for the service, both on Saturday and last month during a procession for Nyx.

“The amount of support that we’ve received over the past several weeks has been simply amazing,” Police Chief Carla Redd said. “I can’t even put it into words.”

Redd also read the poem “Your Canine Guardian Angel” during the service. State Rep. John Cabello, a Rockford police detective, read in a state House resolution mourning the death of Nyx and honoring her for her dedication to protecting and serving the community.

Johnson said that Nyx’s death should be a reminder of the sacrifices police canines and their handlers make in service to the community.

“Her unselfishness, bravery and loyalty serve as a testament to the noble character of our four-legged heroes,” Johnson said. “May we never forget the sacrifices made by our canines and the handlers who stand by their side, facing the darkness together.”

This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas