A devastating incident unfolded at the Red Roof Inn in McKinney, Texas, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, leaving a police K9 and a suspect dead. The events began at approximately 2:44 p.m. when McKinney Police officers responded to a reported shooting at the hotel, located at 1300 North Central Expressway.
Upon arrival, officers found a 52-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to her upper body. Thanks to the swift actions of McKinney Fire Department personnel and officers, the woman received immediate medical attention and was transported to a local hospital, where she remains in stable condition ¹.
The male suspect, later identified as 43-year-old Freddie Ware, barricaded himself inside his hotel room, prompting the deployment of SWAT and Crisis Negotiators. During negotiations, Ware ominously threatened to shoot everyone, escalating the situation.
Approximately 30 minutes later, Ware exited his room, yelling aggressively at officers before walking away. In an attempt to apprehend Ware, officers deployed a police K9, Azi. Tragically, Ware presented a firearm, forcing officers to respond with lethal force. Ware was struck and later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital ¹.
During the exchange of gunfire, K9 Azi was fatally injured, leaving the McKinney Police Department and the community in mourning. The Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA) paid tribute to Azi, honoring his service and sacrifice ².
The investigation has been turned over to the Texas Rangers, with no ongoing threat to the public. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact the McKinney Crime Tip Line at 972-547-3480 or email crimetipline@mckinneytexas.org.
This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and their loyal K9 companions in the line of duty.
