Hualien: A search and rescue dog named Wilson, from the Hualien County Fire Department, died in an accident during a training session in early June, the department told local media Wednesday.

According to Focus Taiwan, the three-year-old Jack Russell Terrier ran toward rescue personnel during a search and rescue training exercise but fell from a three-story building due to an improperly secured fence. He later succumbed to his injuries, said Wu Zhao-yuan, director-general of the department.

Wilson’s handler, who had been with him for three years, expressed deep sorrow and self-blame for not carrying out adequate checks to ensure the safety of the training ground, Wu reported. To support the handler’s emotional recovery and mitigate constant reminders of the incident, the department transferred him from his original post and provided counseling services.

Wu emphasized the importance of conducting thorough safety checks before training, given the significant manpower, time, and resources required to train a search and rescue dog. The handler was found negligent in this case and has received a formal reprimand.

Wilson had previously demonstrated his skills during search and rescue missions following a major earthquake in April 2024, by helping locate the remains of several victims on Shakadang Trail in Taroko National Park, Hualien. In recognition of his contributions, the department plans to create a memorial from Wilson’s remains.