A Wadesboro, North Carolina, Police K-9 was killed Wednesday during an arrest at the end of a vehicle pursuit. The vehicle’s handler was wounded.
The incident also involved a police shooting, according to a statement released by the Wadesboro Town Manager's office, the death of K-9 Blitz is "heartbreaking" for both the department and community.
"Our K9s are not just valued members of our law enforcement team, but beloved companions who serve with courage and dedication," the statement read.
Officials did not say how Blitz was killed but stated that an investigation is ongoing into the police shooting, WCNC reports.
Lewis Davis Jr., III was arrested after the incident. He is charged with assaulting a law enforcement agency animal, eluding arrest, assault with a deadly weapon, multiple drug possession charges, and traffic violations. Davis is being held in Anson County jail with a $60,000 bond.
WSOC reports the K-9 was killed by friendly fire.
Blitz was a retired drug dog donated to the Wadesboro Police Department by dog breeder Josh Harrington in January. The K-9 was trained in narcotics and tracking, not in apprehension, said Harrington.
“Everybody understood that the dog was not to be used in apprehension,” Harrington said.
Harrington claims the handler and Blitz were not certified as a team, which is not required in the state but is highly recommended.
The incident is under investigation.
