Crime

Columbus police give update on K9 and officer shot during shootout with suspect

The Columbus Police Department has given an update on their K9 Havoc that was shot during an altercation between law enforcement and a homicide suspect Tuesday in Columbus.

Havoc was airlifted to Auburn after being shot in an altercation between law enforcement and 33-year-old Jerome Willis, who was fatally shot as a suspect in the Tuesday shooting death of Alexis Hill, 44, at a Dollar General off Victory Drive.

A post from the department’s Facebook page Wednesday says Havoc is stable and will require surgery.

The post says he was transported to Auburn Vet Hospital and his handler has been by his side at every step.

The officer who was injured in the shootout was treated and is expected to make a full recovery.

“Today was a difficult day for our community and for #TeamCPD. In a matter of hours, one life was lost, an officer was injured, and one of our K9s was seriously wounded,” the post says. “It serves as a reminder of the dangers our officers face every day while working to protect this community.”

Local dog treat bakery helps

A Columbus dog treat bakery, Three Dog Bakery, will be selling “Havoc badge cookies” with proceeds benefiting the CPD K9 unit, according to a post from the business’ Facebook page.

The post says they will also accept donations to the CPD K9 unit in the store.

This story was originally published June 24, 2026 at 5:33 PM.

Kelby Hutchison
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer
Kelby Hutchison is the breaking news reporter for the Ledger-Enquirer. Originally from Dothan, Alabama, Kelby grew up frequently visiting Columbus to eat at Country’s BBQ in the old Greyhound bus station and at Clearview BBQ on River Road. He graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.A. in criminal justice and a M.A. in journalism. During his studies, Kelby specialized in community journalism.
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