K9 officer’s death shocks community

The sudden death of Warrington Township Police K9 Officer Stephen Plum, Jr. has sent shock waves and great sorrow through the department and larger community.
“Our family is heartbroken beyond words. Please keep his wife, Nancy, his five children, his parents, friends and family in your thoughts,” Warrington police said, adding, “please send some good thoughts for K9 Murphy, as he no doubt will be struggling to figure out where his person is.”
Plum, 38, was an eight-year veteran of the force and a United States Marine Corps veteran. As of press time, the cause of his untimely death was not yet determined, said officials.
“Rest in Peace Officer Plum. Such a tragic loss for Bucks County,” said the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office. “Our hearts go out to the family, friends and law enforcement community of this brave officer. Thank you for your service, thank you for keeping us safe.”
Expressions of grief were flooding social media, with hundreds of people sharing their sorrow.
“My heart goes out to everyone touched by the passing of Officer Plum. May the love and support of the surrounding community provide some comfort and strength during the difficult days ahead,” read one.
“Our hearts were heavy this morning after hearing this news. Steve was a wonderful Officer and handler and loved K9 Murphy so much. We will miss talking with him. Prayers for everyone,” wrote another.

“Officer Plum visited us with Murphy over a year ago. He was the sweetest guy and such a role model for the children in our community. I want to send his beautiful family my prayers for God’s Comfort and anything else we can do to help them during this tragic time for them,” said a post.
“We love you Steve. Our place will never be the same without you,” said his fellow officers.
Plum and Hatboro Police Officer, Ryan Allen, a fellow K9 Officer, were good friends, Warington officials noted. Allen died just one month ago, following a bee sting that left him incapacitated with brain damage for several months before his death. The father of two was 35.
A GoFundMe has been launched to help the Plum family. As of Tuesday, more than $13,000 had been raised.
“Officer Plum will be deeply missed by not only his family, but by his brothers and sisters in law enforcement and our community,” the GoFundMe page reads. “Behind every strong police officer, there’s an even stronger family who stands by them, supports them, and loves them unconditionally. ‘Kind’ is the word that keeps coming up whenever Steve’s name is mentioned. Please share this message as we come together as a community to support this grieving family.”
Donations may be made on GoFundMe or at the Warrington Township Police Department headquarters, 2330 Lower Barness Road, Warrington, PA 18976.

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