Fairfax County Police Department posted the following announcement on its Facebook page: “We are saddened to announce the passing of K9 Silas on Saturday. K9 Silas and his brother, K9 Bolt, joined FCPD in 2013 as puppies and began serving the community after a year of training. In the fall of 2020, Silas was diagnosed with cancer. The prognosis was grim, even with radiation and chemotherapy. Silas responded well to treatment and lived beyond the veterinarian’s expectations. Silas worked through the pain and treatment, doing what he loved most – tracking critically missing persons.

On Saturday morning, Silas's journey with cancer came to an end. His handler knew he had run his last track and could do no more. We are grateful for the countless families he helped reunite and the smiles he brought to so many faces. Thank you for your service, K9 Silas.”