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Burbank K-9 'Spike' Fatally Shot During Chase; Suspect Identified as Salvadoran National, Officials Say

Authorities say 37-year-old Jose Domingo Ayala Alas fled a Nov. 22 traffic stop in Burbank, and K-9 officer Spike located him hiding in nearby bushes. Officials allege the suspect shot and fatally wounded Spike; the dog later died at an emergency veterinary clinic. Additional K-9s, a SWAT team and air support tracked the armed suspect, who continued firing at police and was fatally shot when officers returned fire. A memorial for Spike is planned, and the K-9 will be honored in the Tournament of Roses Parade.

12:24 PM, 12/03/2025Security

On Nov. 22, Burbank police say their K-9 officer Spike was fatally shot while pursuing a suspect who fled a traffic stop. Authorities have identified the suspect as 37-year-old Jose Domingo Ayala Alas.

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) source told investigators that Alas is a Salvadoran national who was in the United States unlawfully and described him as a known gang member. Police say Spike located the suspect hiding in nearby bushes, and moments later the suspect allegedly fired on the dog.

Spike was rushed to an emergency veterinary clinic but was pronounced dead. Additional K-9 teams, a SWAT unit and air support responded and tracked the armed suspect, who reportedly still had a handgun.

Officers said they attempted to negotiate with the suspect, but he continued firing at police. Members of multiple law enforcement agencies returned fire, and the suspect was killed at the scene.

Burbank Police Chief Rafael Quintero thanked the public and his department: 'Your outpouring of love, compassion, and support as we mourn the loss of K9 Spike has meant more to us than words can express. We are grateful to K9 Spike, who paid the ultimate sacrifice and ensured the men and women of Burbank PD returned home safe that night.'

A memorial ceremony for Spike is scheduled for Wednesday, and the K-9 will also be honored in Burbank's Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year's Day. Community members have left flowers, stuffed animals and other tributes at a public display to mourn the loss.

The investigation remains ongoing. Officials have not released additional details about charges or further information on the suspect's alleged gang ties beyond statements from ICE and local law enforcement.

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