Police K9 tracks missing Auburn child’s scent over 2 miles in cold

AUBURN — A Massachusetts police K9 heroically followed a missing 12-year-old’s scent for over two miles in freezing temperatures to ensure a safe return last week, according to the Auburn Police Department.

The search began when the Auburn police were notified that the child had left their home near Pakachoag Hill around 10:30 p.m. Wednesday without a cellphone or parental consent.

With concerns rising due to the harsh weather conditions, a team of officers, detectives, and state troopers promptly assembled to scour the area for the missing youth.

K9 Biza, a dedicated female German shepherd, and her handler, Officer David Ljunggren, joined the search efforts.

After some time, Biza successfully detected the child’s scent and embarked on a rigorous two-mile track, eventually leading the team to signs of the child’s recent presence.

Following Biza’s trail, law enforcement officers quickly located the child in a nearby area.

The child, who was found safe, was soon after reunited with their family, averting a potential tragedy.

Biza, who has become a valued member of the police force since joining in 2022, has also gained popularity off-duty.

She is featured as “Miss December” in the Massachusetts Vest-A-Dog 2024 calendar and enjoys a following on her own Instagram account.

Her keen instincts and training were crucial in the successful resolution of this incident.