Man arrested after police dog dies following water search in Leicestershire
The dog was confirmed dead after being taken to a vet
Last updated 4th Jul 2024
A police dog has died after entering the water to search for a suspect at a country park in Leicestershire.
Officers said a man wanted by Nottinghamshire Police was detained on suspicion of attempted murder at Watermead Country Park in Birstall, near Leicester, on Wednesday, before being further arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty.
The dog was confirmed dead after being taken to a vet on Wednesday afternoon.
A statement issued by Leicestershire Police said officers were responding to a report that a man, who was wanted by the Nottinghamshire force, may have been in the area.
The statement added: "As part of our response to the incident, a police dog was also deployed to assist with the search.
"The suspect made off from officers before entering the water in Watermead Park.
"The police dog became unresponsive after it also entered the water and was taken to a vet where it was confirmed they had sadly died.
"Following a continued search of the surrounding area, the suspect, a 27-year-old man, was located in the park and arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and subsequently arrested on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.
"He remains in police custody."
An investigation is ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the dog's death, while the attempted murder inquiry is being led by Nottinghamshire Police.
Detective Inspector Claire Hughes said: "This is an extremely sad incident that has resulted in the death of one of our police dogs.
"Colleagues are supporting the dog's handler at this understandably difficult time and our investigation to establish what happened is ongoing.
"We would like to speak to anyone who may have any information at all relating to this incident and has not as yet spoken to police to get in touch."
In an update issued on Thursday afternoon, Leicestershire Police revealed the dog's name as PD Zyla.
Welfare support is also being provided to his handler and officers and staff across force.
Chief Constable Rob Nixon said: “Our police dogs are an integral part of Team Leicestershire playing a crucial critical role in some of our most dangerous operations.
“Zyla died in the line of duty and will always be remembered for her bravery, her dedication and her service. I know many across force are deeply saddened by the loss of PD Zyla and I share in this sorrow. My thoughts remain with Zyla’s handler and all those who have been impacted. We continue to provide full welfare support to all those in force who have been affected.
“Yesterday's events are a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with policing and I want to extend a massive thank you to all the officers who assisted during the incident. Your bravery and professionalism in the face of such an incident are commendable.
“I would also like to thank members of the public for your kind messages which we have received, including the messages of support for PD Zyla’s handler. This is truly appreciated by us all.”
Leicestershire Police's force flag at its headquarters is being flown at half mast as a mark of respect.