A celebrated search-and-rescue dog named Bruno has died after consuming sausages deliberately stuffed with nails, in what authorities are calling a brutal and deliberate act.

Bruno, a bloodhound known for his heroic efforts in locating missing individuals, including children and Alzheimer’s patients, passed away from internal injuries after eating the poisoned food tossed into his kennel in Taranto, a city in southern Italy.

His trainer and owner, Arcangelo Caressa, shared the devastating news, expressing his grief and anger on social media. “Bruno wasn’t the real target – I was,” he claimed, stating he believes he knows who is responsible. “You will pay for what you’ve done,” he warned.

Caressa praised his companion, writing, “You spent your life helping humans, only to be harmed by one. You’ll always be my hero.”

Bruno had earned national recognition for his life-saving work. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the act in a public statement, calling it “heartbreaking,” and described the killing as a “vile, cowardly, and unacceptable” attack. She also posted a photo of herself presenting Bruno with an award in honor of his service.