A police dog has been shot and killed by armed shot following a missing person search near Preston.

Lancashire Police said during the search in a field off Higher Walton Road, Walton-le-Dale the dog became aggressive.

Police dog Jax caused serious injuries to its police dog handler when biting them.

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Efforts were made to restrain the dog during the incident at 5.15am on Thursday (3 August).

When efforts to restrain the dog failed armed police opened fire and killed PD Jax.

The dog handler suffered a serious upper leg injury and is in hospital.

Superintendent Hassan Khan of Lancashire Police said; This is never an easy decision for any officer to take, but police have a duty to act where necessary before any further injury is caused, whether to officers, or members of the public. We would never put anyone at risk of further harm.

“These are highly trained, working dogs which do a skilled job, but like any dog can present a danger in certain circumstances.

“We know how much our dogs are loved by the people of Lancashire and beyond, as well as our own staff. We have been left devastated by what has happened and the outcome of this incident.

“Our thoughts are very much with the injured officer while she undergoes treatment for serious leg injuries and she is receiving our full support.

“Given the circumstances the incident will be reviewed in due course.”

Residents in Walton-le-Dale reported hearing the police helicopter continuously circling the area during the incident.

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