LCSD K9 Sam dies from heat-related illness following training session

(Courtesy: LCSD) K9 Sam & his handler, Deputy Saunders.

LEXINGTON CO., S.C. (WOLO) – Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon has announced the death of one of the department’s K9 officers.

Sheriff Koon says K9 Sam died this week from an apparent heat-related illness following a medical emergency during a training session.

Sam’s handler, Deputy Saunders, rushed him to the vet as soon as he noticed Sam was in distress after a training track.

Sheriff Koon says as a result of this tragedy, the Sheriff’s Department is evaluating its K9 training program.

K9 Sam was 2 years old.

Stay with ABC Columbia for updates on K9 Sam’s memorial services.