via Michigan State Police:
via MSP: Death of Departmental Canine/ Traffic Crash: On 7/25 at approximately 1:05 AM, a MSP Canine unit had S/B M-10 & Linwood closed due to flooding. The patrol car was positioned across all lanes of the freeway ramping off traffic. The freeway had been closed for several hours.
At approximately 1:05 AM, the canine unit activated his emergency tone and advised he had just been hit. The trooper advised the suspect vehicle was also in flames. Detroit Fire arrived on scene and began treating the severely injured passengers of the suspect vehicle.
The suspect vehicle occupants were transported to a local hospital. At this time it appears the suspect vehicle was traveling at freeway speed and hit the MSP Tahoe. The trooper sustained non life threatening injuries to his legs. MSP Canine Rex was transported to Blue Pearl animal hospital in Southfield for severe spine and leg injuries. K9 Rex later died as the result of his injuries.
The driver of the suspect vehicle is believed to be under the influence of alcohol. He has serious injuries. The female front seat passenger has critical injuries. The female rear seat passenger also has serious injuries.
Troopers and the MSP Crash Reconstruction team investigating the crash and have obtained a blood draw which will be tested for alcohol.MSP Canine Rex was a member of the Metro South Post and was known for his determination in searching for suspects and articles. He was a tremendous partner to his handler and was an asset to the post.
MSP Updates Charges For Suspect Henri Brown of Southfield
Update via Michigan State Police July 27 2021:
Patrol Car Crash Update: Henri Brown, 40 years old from Southfield, was arraigned in the hospital today for the patrol car crash that resulted in the death of MSP Canine Rex.
Brown was charged by the Wayne County Prosecutor Office on a eight count felony warrant including Habitual Offender 4th.
Two Counts OWI causing serious injury (5 Year)Two Counts Driving on Revoked License causing serious injury (5 year)
One Count Police Officer- Assaulting/Resisting causing injury (4 Year)Operating with a high BAC (.17)Third Offense (5 year Max)
Operating While Intoxicated Third Offense (5 year Max)Open Container Alcohol (90 Day) Fourth Offense Notice for 3 or more felony convictions.
His blood test returned at .17 BAC. He was given $50,000 bond (10%) with GPS and alcohol tether. Brown has five prior OWI convictions. He remains in the hospital recovering from his injury.
His front seat passenger remains on life support for her to donate her organs. The second passenger has serious non life threatening injuries. The trooper involved was released from the hospital with non life threatening injuries. Pends court proceedings.