‘Incredibly missed’: Retired Bay Area police K9 passes

(KRON) — A retired Bay Area police K9 has crossed over the rainbow bridge. The Pittsburg Police Department is in mourning Sunday for the loss of K9 officer Jager.

“It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our beloved retired K9s,” the Pittsburg Police Department wrote on social media.

Jager was known for his dedication to work, attentiveness and charming personality, Pittsburg PD said. The German shepherd from Slovakia became a member of the Pittsburg Police Department in June of 2016. He served as the first explosives-ordinance detection K9 in the department’s history.

“Jager served the citizens of Pittsburg with his handler, Officer Morris for 7 years,” Pittsburgh PD said. “They were an incredible duo. Jager is credited with two apprehensions, countless surrenders and also assisted in locating ammunition to include firearms.”

One of Jager’s top accomplishments included finding a discarded gun in a case where a minor was shot.

“The suspect discarded the firearm from a moving vehicle into some dense bushes,” Pittsburg PD said. “The following day, Jager conducted a search of the area, and located the firearm.”

K9 Jager was also used for dozens of educational demonstrations in Contra Costa County, where he helped build community relations on behalf of the department.

“Thank you, Jager for your service and for making sure our officers made it home safe to their families every night,” Pittsburg PD said. “You will be incredibly missed.”