California police K-9 killed during assault suspect investigation

LONG BEACH, Calif. -- A police K-9 was killed in the line of duty during an investigation surrounding an assault suspect in Long Beach on Tuesday.

The incident began around 9 a.m. near the 2800 block of East 15th Street as officers were investigating a suspect wanted in connection to an assault with a deadly weapon case.

A perimeter was established around an apartment complex in the area, where the suspect was located.

At some point in the investigation, Long Beach police said an officer-involved shooting occurred.

Authorities said a police K-9 was transported to a local animal hospital for treatment. Long Beach police said the dog died from its injuries.

The suspect was transported to a local hospital and later died.

During an afternoon press conference, Deputy Chief Richard Conant with Long Beach police identified the slain K-9 as Credo, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois.

"These K-9s are not just dogs. They are police officers. That's going to weigh heavily on the department," Conant said.

Long Beach police said Credo served the department for two years alongside his handler, Officer Mike Parcells.

Credo worked with the patrol and narcotics department and was involved in more than 30 apprehensions during his years of service, according to Long Beach police.

A line of officers stood at attention in front of the Signal Hill Animal Hospital to pay their respects to Credo.

Credo was carried out of the animal hospital draped in an American flag with Parcells close behind.

Parcells also lost a K-9 partner in the line of duty back in 2005, according to authorities.