The Gainesville Police Department (GPD) is mourning the sudden death of Merlin, a retired mounted patrol horse who served the department and Gainesville community for more than a decade.
According to a GPD release sent Tuesday, Merlin served with GPD’s Mounted Patrol Unit from 2006 until his retirement in 2017. After retiring from service, Merlin was reunited with one of his primary riders, retired GPD Officer Andrew Hinson, allowing the pair to continue their special bond.
Merlin was 27 years old and will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him during his years of service to the community, the release stated.
GPD also extended a special thank you to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and St. Johns County Fire Rescue for their assistance and support during this difficult time.
“Rest easy, Merlin. Thank you for your service and the memories you leave behind,” the release stated.