LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - Nebraska Task Force One is mourning the loss of their beloved K-9, Watson, who was nearing his 10th birthday.

NE-TF1 Program Manager Ashley Engler said Watson died due to the rapid onset of a neurological condition.

Watson was born on April 14, 2016, near Buffalo, New York. At just 18 months old, he earned his first FEMA Certification with handler Andrew Pitcher. Trained to bring closure to families by detecting human remains in a variety of environments, he was especially skilled in disaster scenarios.

He was deployed to assist with Hurricane Ian, the New Mexico Fires, the Crete Smithfield Collapse, and also supported local Nebraska law enforcement.

“Watson was more than a working dog; he was a partner, a companion, and a source of unwavering joy. Watson faced e

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