Police dog dies during chase for attempted murder suspect

Leicestershire Police's flag is being flown at half mast at the force's headquarters, and an event will also be arranged in Zyla's memory

A police dog has died while pursuing a suspect wanted in connection with a double stabbing.

The Leicestershire Police dog - namely PD Zyla - was deployed after a report the man wanted by officers had been spotted at Watermead Country Park in Birstall on Wednesday.

PD Zyla followed the man who entered the water at the park, but became unresponsive, officers said.

A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

Police said a fight broke out in Wilford Street in the early hours of Sunday, 23 June

It is the eighth arrest in connection with a double stabbing in Wilford street, in Nottingham's city centre, in the early hours of Sunday 23 June.

He remains in police custody, while others have been bailed under conditions.

A 26-year-old man previously detained on suspicion of attempted murder was de-arrested for the offence and then arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, police said.

Officers also previously arrested a 22-year-old man on suspicion of assisting an offender, and five other men – aged 24, 32, 35, 37, and 40 – were detained on suspicion of violent disorder.

The force said the two people stabbed during the disorder did not have life-threatening injuries.

'Bravery, dedication and service'

Det Insp Lisa Jones said: “We’d like to thank our police colleagues in Leicestershire for their assistance during what was an extensive search of the country park for this suspect.

“Several different teams from both sides of the county border were involved, while aerial support was also provided by NPAS, so we’re extremely grateful for this assistance."

Anyone with information about the Wilford Street incident is asked to contact the police.

Meanwhile, Leicestershire Police is investigating the full circumstances surrounding the dog’s death.

Det Insp Claire Hughes of Leicestershire Police said: "Colleagues are supporting the dog’s handler at this understandably difficult time and our investigation to establish what happened is ongoing."

A police tribute described Zyla as a member of the force who "will always be remembered for her bravery, her dedication and her service".

The force's flag is being flown at half mast at its headquarters, and an event will also be arranged in Zyla's memory.

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