Suspect, K-9 killed in Alton, Illinois shootout that injures police officer

ALTON, Ill. (KMOX) - A suspect and a K-9 dog are dead in an shootout in Alton, Illinois that also injured an Alton Police Department officer.

According to the Illinois State Police, at approximately 6:05 a.m., Alton police requested the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 6 to assist in an officer involved shooting investigation.

Preliminary reports indicates that Alton officers were engaged in a shootout with a suspect in the the 700 block of East 6th Street in Alton. During the shootout, the suspect sustained injuries and was transported to an area hospital where they were pronounced deceased.

One Alton officer, identified as Allen Averbeck was also struck. The officer was transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries, and was released and is recovering at home according to Illinois State Police.

The K-9 dog, identified as Odin was diagnosed with critical injuries and was transported to a local veterinary hospital, but it would succumb to its injuries. Odin recently joined the Alton Police Department in February and graduated from the K-9 academy in May.

The O'Fallon Police Department sent out a post on it's Facebook page, honoring Odin and giving their thoughts to Odin's handler.

It is with heavy hearts that we extend our deepest sympathies to the Alton Police Department following the tragic loss...

Posted by O'Fallon Missouri Police Department on Thursday, August 22, 2024

The Edwardsville Police and Fire Department both participated in a procession to honor Odin Thursday afternoon and sent their condolences to Odin's handler.

The Edwardsville Police and Fire Departments took part in a somber procession Thursday afternoon for an Alton Police...

Posted by Edwardsville Fire Department on Thursday, August 22, 2024

The Madison County's Sheriff's Office sent a post on it's Facebook page honoring Odin.

The Madison County Sheriff's Office mourns with the Alton Police Department, and stands beside our law-enforcement...

Posted by Madison County Sheriff's Office on Thursday, August 22, 2024

Illinois State Police will lead the investigation into the use of force portion of this incident. After a thorough investigation, they will turn over its investigation to the Madison State’s Attorney’s Office.

This story will be updated as soon as more information is available.