Chula Vista, CA – Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) K9 Griffen died from an undisclosed medical condition on Friday, his department announced.

In an emotional Twitter post on Sunday, the CVPD hailed K9 Griffen as a “trusted partner,” and thanked him for his service to his community.

“It was a hard day for all of us, especially Griffen’s handler and best friend, Officer Chancellor,” the department posted, along with a photo of a grieving officer embracing K9 Griffen in his final moments.

“It is hard to overstate the bond that a K-9 and his handler have when working long hours in dangerous situations,” the department said, according to KUSI. “CVPD’s law enforcement family extends deepest sympathies to his partner officer.”

K9 Griffen, a 7-year-old Belgian Malinois who often worked night-shift patrols, was surrounded by his Officer Chancellor, Officer Chancellor’s family, and members of the K9 program when he passed away, the CVPD said.

“Griffen not only worked to protect his handler, search for dangerous suspects, and deter criminal behavior, but was well known throughout the city as a frequent guest at community events and public demonstrations,” the department added.

“Thank you for your service to the City of Chula Vista,” the department said in an Instagram post on Saturday. “Rest easy, boy.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Chula Vista Police Department in the loss of K9 Griffen.