A California law enforcement office is mourning the loss of one of its police dogs after the animal was struck and killed by a vehicle while running away from the sound of illegal fireworks.
The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office said K-9 Santi, a 5-year-old Belgian Malinois, died Saturday night after escaping from his handler’s backyard during Fourth of July celebrations.
According to the sheriff’s office, Santi’s handler had been keeping the dog indoors because of the constant noise from illegal fireworks in the area. When the dog was briefly let into the backyard, an aerial firework exploded nearby, startling Santi and causing him to leap over a fence and run away.
The deputy immediately chased after the dog and repeatedly called for him to return, but official information states the continued explosions appeared to prevent Santi from responding.
Driver fled the scene
The deputy later found Santi critically injured near the intersection of Shaw and Helm avenues in Clovis. The dog was rushed to a veterinary hospital but later died from his injuries.
Investigators determined that Santi had been struck by a vehicle and that the driver left the scene without stopping. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office at (559) 324-2800.
A reminder about illegal fireworks
The sheriff’s office said the tragedy underscores the dangers illegal fireworks pose not only to people and property but also to animals, which can become frightened and disoriented by loud explosions.
Santi served with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office for four years and was considered a valued member of the department. Officials said his death has been devastating for both his handler and the entire department.
