After nearly three weeks assisting in the aftermath of one of the deadliest inland flooding disasters in U.S. history, Los Angeles County Fire Department canine search teams are back home.
The specialized crews landed at LAX early Sunday morning following an 18-day deployment to central Texas, where they assisted in massive search and recovery operations after catastrophic flooding devastated multiple communities over the July Fourth holiday weekend.
The L.A. County teams were activated by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) on July 8 as part of the state’s mutual aid system, joining elite search crews from Oakland, Sacramento, Menlo Park, Orange County, and Riverside County.
Captain Celina Serrano and K9 Prentiss, Firefighter Paramedic Jonathan Munguia and K9 Clifford, and Search Team Manager Fire Captain Michael Devine represented L.A. County throughout the operation, working in dangerous conditions amid collapsed buildings, toppled trees, and sweltering heat.
“It was a tough deployment in some really tough conditions,” said Captain Sheila Kelliherberkoh with L.A. County Fire. “Over 90-degree temps and 90% humidity… through massive debris fields. Hard conditions for sure.”
At least 135 people were killed in the catastrophic flooding that struck central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend, with the majority of deaths occurring in Kerr County. There, the Guadalupe River surged more than 26 feet overnight, sweeping away homes, RV parks, and summer camps. Among the victims were 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic, a century-old Christian camp for girls.
“It always feels good helping your neighbor,” said Firefighter Paramedic Jonathan Munguia. “Our community, their community—we want to help each other out.”
The mission wasn’t without close calls. During the deployment, K9 Prentiss experienced a life-threatening medical emergency. Captain Serrano rushed him into emergency surgery after he began drooling and acting strangely. Veterinarians discovered his stomach had bloated and twisted — a critical condition that required immediate intervention.
“They performed the surgery successfully,” Serrano said. “But there was a thought at the time that we’re going to come back without him, which was pretty scary. I’m glad he made it through.”
K9 Prentiss is now recovering and is expected to retire next spring.
The canine teams were welcomed back to their Pacoima headquarters Sunday after dropping off equipment at the department’s Technical Operations Section. These specialized teams are trained to respond to the most severe disasters, including earthquakes, building collapses, and major floods.
“All canine teams and first responders are to be commended for their steadfast commitment,” said Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone. “We continue to stand alongside the residents and communities impacted by the devastating flooding and pray for continued strength and resilience.”
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