Santa Ana Police Horse Dies Suddenly

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A Santa Ana Police Department horse died “suddenly and unexpectedly” on Friday, authorities said.

Bonita, a horse from the Santa Ana Police Department Mounted Unit, died suddenly on Jan. 4, 2019. (Credit: Santa Ana Police Department)

Bonita was a 6-year veteran of the department’s Mounted Unit, police officials said in a written statement.

The animal had no known medical problems before it was found dead, Cpl. Anthony Bertagna said. The cause of death was unclear.

Bonita was partnered with Cpl. Verdugo.

Police Chief David Valentin expressed gratitude for Bonita’s service via social media.

“On behalf of the (Santa Ana) community, I appreciate Bonita’s years of service and that of her partner, Cpl. Verdugo,” he said.

Suddenly & unexpectedly SAPD Mounted Unit horse Bonita passed away yesterday. Bonita, Cpl. Verdugo’s partner was a member of the unit for the past 6-years. Chief Valentin “on behalf of the SA Community, I appreciate Bonita’s years of service & that of her partner, CPL. Verdugo. pic.twitter.com/6ByexfZ6W3

— SantaAnaPD (@SantaAnaPD) January 5, 2019