McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office Mourns Loss of Retired K9 Xillo
Travis Bateman
Farmer Staff Writer
The McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of retired K9 Xillo (Zy-low), the agency’s second-ever law enforcement dog remembered for years of service protecting McKenzie County and assisting law enforcement across throughout McKenzie County.
Xillo passed away on May 17, 2026, following a battle with cancer, according to a statement released by the Sheriff’s Office.
Born Feb. 5, 2016, in Rimavská Sobota, Slovakia, Xillo joined the McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office on Oct. 31, 2017. During his career, the Czech Shepherd became known throughout the region for his detection capabilities, tracking work, and role in numerous criminal investigations and arrests.
“From his very first shift, it was clear he was something special,” the Sheriff’s Office wrote in its memorial statement. “Courageous, dedicated, and exceptionally skilled in detection work, Xillo served this county with heart and determination.”
Xillo retired from active service on Aug. 2, 2022, after nearly five years with the agency. At the time of his retirement, his handler, Deputy Maxwell Ingram, described the K9 as an invaluable public safety asset capable of locating narcotics, tracking missing or endangered individuals, and assisting in the apprehension of fleeing suspects.
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