Minneapolis police dog dies after fall from roof

A Minneapolis police dog who had served since 2007 died Monday after falling from the roof of a three-story building.

The dog, named Chase, was helping his handler search the roof during a burglary call. Police said officers responded to a possible burglary in progress at 7 a.m. Monday at 222 Hennepin Ave. S.

Officer Eric Lukes and the dog were asked to help search the former car dealership building. They were on the roof when Chase fell and was seriously injured, police said.

The dog was taken to the University of Minnesota for medical treatment but he couldn't be saved.

Police spokesman Sgt. Bill Palmer said Chase's death is a big loss for the department.

"It's tough to lose one of these dogs. They're invaluable in safeguarding the lives of our officers," Palmer said.

Police said three suspects were arrested at the scene.

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