ALEXANDRIA, La. – After launching a dog hunt and offering a reward for his safe return, Louisiana Tech University discovered early Wednesday afternoon that its beloved mascot, Tech 20, died from heat stroke.
According to Dr. Patrick Sexton, an employee at Sexton Animal Health Center let the British bulldog outside to relieve himself Sunday evening. The employee led clinic staff and university officials to believe that the dog was stolen.
"Regretfully, I learned this morning that through negligence of an employee, Tech 20 was left outside too long on Sunday evening and passed away from a heat stroke," Sexton wrote in a statement. "That employee unfortunately chose to handle it the wrong way and attempted to cover it up. Due to this negligence, the employee is no longer employed by Sexton Animal Health Center," he also said.
Tech 20 lived with Sexton, who also runs the clinic.
"My family, my staff and I are extremely upset at this tragic turn of events as I know the entire Louisiana Tech Family is as well," Sexton said. "Tech 20 was a member of our immediate family and a daily part of our lives for the past four years. We are devastated over the circumstances of his passing, and there will be a large void in our hearts for some time to come. As with any family member, we will spend considerable time grieving his passing," he said.
Officials from Louisiana Tech University also released a statement Wednesday afternoon, detailing how the mascot will be remembered for being a fan favorite and a symbol of the spirit of Louisiana Tech.
"Since becoming our official mascot in 2008, Tech 20 received superior care and a loving home from Dr. Patrick Sexton and, despite the unfortunate circumstances of the past few days, we are grateful for all he and his family have done for our beloved mascot," university officials said in a statement.
