Candlelight vigil for dead police dog

CELINA, Ohio (WDTN) - The Mercer County community turned out Monday night to remember a police dog that died suddenly last week.

Zak, a K-9 unit with the sheriff's department died Wednesday, August 1 after his handler left him inside a hot patrol car.

Outcry over the dog has been fierce ever since.

Approximately 100 people and dogs gathered at Celina Rotary Dog Park in Celina to pay tribute to Zak.  

"Its such an unfortunate tragedy," said Lorie Winner, who traveled from the St.Mary's area to take part in the ceremony."  "I brought my German shepherd, Nick, who is a retired police dog."

Beth Weitz of Celina also attended the service with her golden retriever named Maverick.  

"I used to be a probation officer," said Weitz.  "A K-9  is considered part of the force like another officer so its just terrible to think of a police officer dying in this manner."

Deputy Chad Fortkamp apologized for what happened and took full responsibility for Zak's death during a Monday morning news conference.

Fortkamp was suspended for 45 work days without pay.

Zak joined the Mercer County Sheriff's office in the fall of 2010.  

The K-9 would have turned 3-years-old in the fall.