Police therapy dog in Massachusetts dies in head-on crash after serving community.

A therapy dog from the Wilmington police department was tragically killed in a car crash in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, on Tuesday morning. The collision, which involved a Toyota Camry and a Mazda 3 on Whipple Road near Wells Drive, resulted in injuries to both drivers that were not believed to be life-threatening. The Wilmington police therapy dog named Zena was seriously injured in the accident and transported by ambulance to the Bulger Animal Hospital in Lawrence under Nero’s Law, which allows police dogs to be taken via ambulance when needed. A preliminary investigation suggests that the Mazda 3, driven by a 26-year-old woman from Westminster, crossed over the double yellow center line and collided head-on with the Toyota Camry operated by a Wilmington Police Department employee who was Zena's handler. The Mazda driver will face charges for negligent motor vehicle operation and a marked lanes violation. Zena, a 3-year-old Bernedoodle who had been with the Wilmington police since January 2022, was well-known for her comforting presence at schools, community events, and the senior center. Chief Brian Pupa expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Zena, stating that she was a treasured part of the Wilmington Police family and community, having provided comfort and support during challenging times. An investigation into the crash remains ongoing.