Retired Lancaster police horse dies

LANCASTER, Pa - Lancaster police say one of their retired police horses has died.

Liam died on April 4 due to complications from Cushing's Disease, which is a hormonal disorder, and was laid to rest on a private farm near the home of his partner, Officer Eric Lukacs.

Before joining the Lancaster police force in 2005, he worked as a carriage horse in Toronto, according to Lancaster City Bureau of Police.

His previous owner could no longer care for him due to financial constraints, but Lancaster police recognized his potential and rescued him.

Photo courtesy Lancaster City Bureau of Police

Police say Liam was paired with Eric Lukacs in 2007.

For the next 17 years, the pair patrolled the streets of Lancaster, participated in more than 1,000 programs and supported other jurisdictions — including Gettysburg, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.

Liam was featured in numerous national magazines. He also had a popular children's book written about him, called "What Does a Police Horse Do?"

Liam served faithfully until April 29, 2023, and spent the rest of his days on a private farm along with his former co-worker, Ozzy.

Photo courtesy Lancaster City Bureau of Police

Together, Liam and Ozzy enjoyed the past year in each other’s company, roaming an entire pasture with a walk-in pond, and embracing the tranquility of their well-deserved retirement, according to the announcement.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Liam for his dedicated service and commitment to keeping our community safe," police said in a news release. "While we mourn his passing, Liam's memory will live on in our hearts forever."

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