A K-9 officer named Santi died after being hit by a car when illegal fireworks erupted in California on the Fourth of July. Santi, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois, had served four years with the Fresno County Sheriff's Department.
Santi was with his assigned off-duty sheriff deputy, who was keeping the dog inside due to the illegal fireworks. However, when the dog was let outside to relieve himself, a firework exploded nearby, startling Santi. The dog bolted over the fence, and despite the deputy's pursuit and calls, continued to run due to the ongoing fireworks.
The deputy found Santi injured on the roadway shortly after. The dog had been struck by a car and was taken to a pet hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The Clovis Police Department is investigating the incident and has interviewed witnesses. Authorities are warning about the dangers of illegal fireworks and asking anyone with information to contact the Clovis Police Department.