A police dog who had "outstanding successes" has died after being hit by a train.
Avon and Somerset Police announced PD Jet's death "with great sadness" after he was severely injured while on duty yesterday morning (Wednesday, April 14).
An force spokeswoman said: "Jet, a six-year-old German Shepherd, had been deployed to locate suspected offenders following a report of a burglary at a commercial premises in Yate when he free tracked onto an obscured section of railway line and was struck by a train.
"Sadly, despite receiving emergency treatment over the past 24 hours, his injuries were deemed too severe and the decision was taken to put him to sleep at midday today."
Get the biggest stories from across Bristol straight to your inbox.
The burglary suspects are yet to be found. Police enquiries to trace them are ongoing.
"Since joining us from Devon and Cornwall Constabulary in September last year, Jet has had some outstanding successes within Avon and Somerset, including locating wanted and vulnerable persons," the force spokeswoman added.
Tactical support teams Chief Inspector Jason Shears said: “We are incredibly sad at the loss of PD Jet. Jet was a determined and focused police dog who loved working in the many important roles our dogs perform in, all of which help to keep our communities safe.
“Jet and his handler had a very special bond which was cemented by the months of hard work and training carried out. Jet will be missed by all within Avon and Somerset Police”.
