Lucy, a Belgium Malinois, had been with the sheriff's department since October. She was presented "Top Dog" during United States Police Canine Association Inc. certifications last year, according to a news release from the Bradley County Sheriff's Office.

"Our agency is saddened by the tragic death of K-9 Deputy Lucy," Sheriff Eric Watson said in the release. "She was a great asset to the Bradley County Sheriff's Office, and served this agency well beside her assigned K-9 handler. Our female canine deputy will be buried with full honors, and Faithful Friends has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

"I petition the community to pray for Lucy's K-9 handler, Deputy Chris Shope, during this time who treasured Lucy tremendously."

"You will live on in my heart,
my best friend so true.
Your memories fill my mind,
I will never forget you. "