Midlothian Fire Department Mourns Loss of Beloved Dog Riggs

MIDLOTHIAN, Texas — The Midlothian Fire Department is mourning the loss of Riggs, its cherished firehouse dog, who was found dead after being struck by a vehicle on U.S. Highway 287. The tragic announcement was made by the department on Tuesday morning.

Riggs, a three-year-old yellow Labrador mix, had been missing since Friday, May 2. His departure prompted an extensive search effort by both firefighters and local residents. Initially, the department offered a $1,000 reward for Riggs’s safe return, which later increased to $2,500 as hopes began to dwindle.

The fire department’s concerns grew after reports surfaced of a small black SUV attempting to pick him up. Firefighters collaborated with volunteer Carrie Butterfield and her tracking dog, Bullet, in hopes of locating Riggs. However, they lost his scent in the vicinity where he was last seen.

According to Fire Chief Dale McCaskill, Riggs served as more than just a companion for the firefighters; he was an emotional anchor. “He was always excited when they returned from a call, greeting them at the door with the same enthusiasm every time,” McCaskill stated.

In a heartfelt statement on their Facebook page, the fire department expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “While this is not the outcome we had hoped for, we are incredibly thankful for the overwhelming support from our community. Riggs was more than just a station dog—he was part of our family,” they said.

Tributes have flooded in from across North Texas, with countless residents sharing their memories of Riggs. The department has not yet announced plans for a memorial service, but they emphasized that Riggs’s presence will be deeply missed by all.

Monetary donations in Riggs’s memory can be made to the Midlothian Animal Shelter, located at 215 N. 8th Street, Midlothian, Texas, 76065.