Sheriff's dog dies during pursuit

FAYETTE COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) - A 2-year-old service dog for the Fayette County Sheriff's Office died Monday during a search for a fleeing suspect, apparently the victim of heat exhaustion.

Sheriff Keith Korenek said the two-year-old dog, Knight, was assisting Deputy Randy Thumann in the search in Bastrop County near State Highway 71 and Wither Lane. The Bastrop sheriff's office requested the assistance from Fayette County as well as from the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Knight was with officer who attempting to arrest 20-year-old Sean Zeugin on outstanding warrants. Korenek said Zeugin had run his vehicle into a mobile home and then fled the scene on foot.

Apparently, Knight collapsed during the pursuit.

"Although all precautions were taken, and despite the heroic efforts of Deputy Thumann and other emergency professionals, Knight succumbed to apparent heat exhaustion," Korenek said.

Knight has spent nearly all his life with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office.

"He has been credited with numerous arrests and drug seizures during his short career, the sheriff said. "He will be greatly missed and highly honored for his loyalty to his partner and his job."

Korenek plans a memorial service on Friday, and Knight will be buried on grounds near the sheriff's office.