HR0886 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0886 LRB103 42414 ECR 75643 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Alton Police Department K9 Officer Odin, who was killed in the line of duty on August 22, 2024; and

WHEREAS, K9 Officer Odin was a 20-month-old Belgian Malinois/German Shepherd mix who joined the Alton Police Department in February 2024; he recently graduated from the Illinois State Police Academy as a member of Canine Class #89 in early May; and

WHEREAS, K9 Officer Odin and his partner, Officer Allen Averbeck, were struck by gunfire while attempting to apprehend a suspect who was wanted in connection with a shooting that had occurred the night before; Officer Averbeck suffered non-life-threatening injuries while K9 Officer Odin tragically succumbed to his wounds; and

WHEREAS, K9 Officer Odin courageously sacrificed his life to save the lives of his fellow officers of the Alton Police Department; and

WHEREAS, K9 Officer Odin and his partner, Officer Averbeck, were dedicated to protecting and serving their community and apprehending violent offenders; Officer Averbeck is left with the responsibility of carrying out their duties in his honor; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of K9 Officer Odin and extend our sincere condolences to Officer Averbeck, the Alton Police Department, and all those who loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we thank K9 Officer Odin and Officer Averbeck for the sacrifices they have made in service to their community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be presented to the Alton Police Department and Officer Averbeck as an expression of our deepest sympathy.