First picture of police dog who died responding to Watermead Park incident

This is the first picture of the police dog who died doing her job in Watermead Park yesterday (Wednesday). Tributes have been paid to PD Zyla by the force with Chief Constable Rob Nixon today describing how Zyla “will always be remembered for her bravery and service.”

Welfare support is also being provided by the force to PD Zyla’s handler and to officers and staff across force.

CC Nixon said: “Our police dogs are an integral part of Team Leicestershire playing a crucial critical role in some of our most dangerous operations. Zyla died in the line of duty and will always be remembered for her bravery, her dedication and her service.

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"I know many across force are deeply saddened by the loss of PD Zyla and I share in this sorrow. My thoughts remain with Zyla’s handler and all those who have been impacted. We continue to provide full welfare support to all those in force who have been affected.

“Yesterday's events are a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with policing and I want to extend a massive thank you to all the officers who assisted during the incident. Your bravery and professionalism in the face of such an incident are commendable.

“I would also like to thank members of the public for your kind messages which we have received, including the messages of support for PD Zyla’s handler. This is truly appreciated by us all.”

As a mark of respect, the force flag is currently being flown at half mast at force headquarters. This mark of respect is carried out by the force when an officer or member of staff has died while in the line of duty.

A remembrance event will also be arranged in force for PD Zyla. CC Nixon will also be wearing a silver band with Zyla’s name on it while undertaking the Police Unity tour later this month.

The Police Unity tour is held every year and is in honour of those officers who have died in the line of duty.