A Fresno County sheriff’s deputy is grieving the loss of his K-9 partner after the dog was fatally injured in a hit-and-run incident over the weekend. The Belgian Malinois, named Santi, was startled by fireworks and ran away before being struck by a vehicle.

The incident took place Saturday night in Clovis, California. According to a statement from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, the deputy had let Santi, a 5-year-old service dog, outside to urinate when an aerial mortar exploded nearby. The loud noise frightened Santi, causing him to bolt and jump over a fence.

The deputy pursued the dog, repeatedly calling for him to return, but the ongoing fireworks noise prevented Santi from stopping. After a brief search, the deputy located Santi injured on the road at the intersection of Shaw and Helm avenues. The dog was transported to a veterinary hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

Santi had served with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office for four years, providing law enforcement support during that time.

The Clovis Police Department is handling the investigation into the hit-and-run. Authorities have urged anyone with information about the driver involved to contact the department at (559) 324-2800.