LANCASTER, Pa. — Note: The video is from November 2023.
A longtime member of the Lancaster City Bureau of Police's Mounted Patrol Unit has died, the police department announced Monday.
"With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Liam, one of our dedicated mounts," the police department said.
The 24-year-old Clydesdale Hackney Cross succumbed to complications from Cushing's Disease on April 4, according to the police department. Cushing's Disease is a disorder of the pituitary gland that causes excessive production of hormones.
Liam was buried on a private farm near the home of his longtime Mounted Patrol Unit partner, Officer Eric Lukacs, with whom he served for most of his 17-year tenure with the Lancaster Bureau of Police.
"Liam's journey with the Lancaster City Bureau of Police began in 2005, when he joined as a dedicated mount," the police department said. "He was paired with Officer Lukacs in 2007 and served faithfully until his retirement on April 29, 2023."
Born in Toronto, Liam worked as a carriage horse before his previous owner had to give him up due to financial constraints.
"Fortunately, the Lancaster City Police recognized Liam's potential and rescued him on November 17, 2005," the department said. "Together, Liam and Officer Lukacs patrolled the streets of Lancaster City, participated in over 1,000 programs, and even supported other jurisdictions including Washington, DC, Philadelphia, Gettysburg, Bethlehem, Stamford, CT, and Rockland Co, NY."
While serving with Lukacs, Liam was featured in several national magazines and was even the subject of a children's book, "What Does a Police Horse Do?"
Following his retirement, Liam was moved to a 309-acre private farm, where he shared space with seven other horses, including Ozzy, another retired member of the Mounted Police Unit.
"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," the police department said.
"While we mourn his passing, Liam's memory will live on in our hearts forever," the police department continued. "We ask that you keep Officer Lukacs and his family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult time."