Police K9 Shot, Killed Pursuing Suspect On Christmas Eve

WELLINGTON, FL — A police dog was shot and killed pursuing a suspect on Christmas Eve in Florida, officials said.

"He did his job, giving his life to save and protect our own," Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said. The sheriff's office said their hearts were truly broken over the loss of K9 Cigo.

In a press release, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's office said they received information that two suspects wanted on warrants were at the Wellington Green Mall. In the press release, authorities said the two men were wanted on warrants of first degree attempted murder with a firearm and robbery with a firearm.

The sheriff's office said in the news release that deputies were in the parking lot where they planned to apprehend the suspects before they entered their car. As they watched the men exit the mall, one of the suspects surrendered but another man took off running, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said in a press briefing Monday evening that was broadcast via Periscope.

K9 Cigo was released to pursue the man, according to Bradshaw. The suspect, who was running and shooting at the same time, fired and hit the dog, according to Bradshaw. The K9 was still able to get to the man and the suspect was firing back at deputies, Bradshaw said. Deputies returned fire and shot the suspect, who is currently in serious condition at the hospital.

"The dog is deceased but he did his job and saved those deputies' lives," Bradshaw said.

Bradshaw said there was a third man at the mall and authorities were trying to determine his identity.

The two men were identified as Justin Vazquez, 19, of Lake Worth and Giovany Ramos Alvarez, who remains in the hospital in serious condition.

Photo via Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office