The El Paso County Sheriff's Office is in a period of mourning after the loss of one of their own, a horse named Zulu from their Mounted Unit. Sheriff Joseph Roybal confirmed Zulu's passing, noting his important role as an equine member of the local law enforcement family.
It was during routine care that a deputy noticed Zulu exhibiting signs of distress, prompting an immediate call to veterinary services. After being transported to a local vet hospital, Zulu was diagnosed with a severe case of Colic, an often painful gastrointestinal condition. Despite efforts to save him, the decision was made by Sheriff Roybal and the leadership of the Mounted Unit to euthanize the 20-year-old Andalusian Quarter horse cross to prevent further suffering, according to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office.
Zulu had notably contributed to the community and the Sheriff's Office for nearly a decade. His service included participating in numerous parades, presidential details, rescue operations, and even playing a role in the Gannon Stauch case search efforts.
"I am saddened to announce Zulu’s untimely death and mourn both with our Mounted Unit and community," Sheriff Roybal said, as per El Paso County Sheriff's Office. "Zulu was a staple for our Mounted Unit team, always dependable and ready to work." Over the past weekend, just days before his passing, Zulu attended a community event where he, alongside his fellow equine partners, interacted with hundreds of families. The sheriff reflected on this interaction, emphasizing the role that Zulu played in connecting the department to the community they serve.
A necropsy later conducted at Sheriff Roybal's request confirmed the severity of the illness that took Zulu's life. As reported by the Sheriff's Office, Zulu's passing is particularly felt because, after the retirement of the Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard, the El Paso County Mounted Unit remains the sole mounted unit in the Pikes Peak region. Zulu's role was not only foundational within the unit but also symbolized a unique aspect of law enforcement in the area.
