WELLINGTON, Fla. (WSVN) – Authorities are investigating after a gunman fatally shot a police dog near The Mall at Wellington Green in Palm Beach County.
Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office units were dispatched to the mall located along South State Road 7, just before 6 p.m., Monday.
We are currently investing an officer involved shooting in the area of Wellington Green Mall. The mall is currently locked down while we investigate. Suspect is in custody. Suspect shot at our Deputies and struck our K9 dog. K9 is currently at the veterinarian emergency center.
— PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) December 24, 2018
Deputies spotted a known gang member wanted for attempted murder and exchanged fire with the suspect in the mall’s parking lot.
One of the gunman’s shots at deputies struck a K-9 dog that was on his tail.
Our hearts are truly broken after a suspect shot and killed our K9 Dog tonight, on Christmas Eve. “He did his job, giving his life to save and protect our own” – Sheriff @RicBradshaw
— PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) December 25, 2018
Rest In Peace #K9Cigo
— PBSO (@PBCountySheriff) December 25, 2018
The gunman ended up getting shot by deputies, and he was transported to an area hospital in unknown condition.
The dog, later identified as Cigo, was rushed to a veterinary emergency center but later succumbed to his injuries.
No other injuries were reported.
The mall was placed on lockdown while officials investigated, but the mall has since closed due to holiday hours.
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