Georgia K-9 dies after chasing suspect in 90-degree heat
Photo credit: Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office
GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. (FOX 35 ORLANDO) - The Gwinnett County Police Department is mourning the loss of one of their beloved K-9's that died in the line of duty on Thursday.
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Investigators say that heat could be to blame for his sudden death.
According to the department, K-9 Officer Eli become distressed while chasing a suspect, showing symptoms that are believed to be heat-related. He was reportedly tracking the suspect for around 30 minutes in 90-degree temperatures.
Eli was rushed to a local veterinarian but did not recover.
"Please keep GCPD & his handler Officer Bonanno in your thoughts as we mourn the sudden loss of this brave K-9," the department wrote on Facebook.
Eli was 9-years-old and had worked with the department for 8 years.