Louisiana Tech's Beloved Mascot Tech XX Dies Amid Attempted Coverup

Louisiana Tech fans were hit with the somber news that their beloved mascot Tech XX, an English bulldog, has passed away. 

The more startling piece of news is how the live mascot passed away, and the apparent cover up that was attempted in the wake of the dog's death. 

Initially, Friends of the Program released a post that Tech XX had gone missing. Now we have learned things are far worse. 

Louisiana Tech University's Facebook page has the full story. They then posted an update to the story once they heard more details behind the death, via Patrick R. Sexton, DVM. 

"

Regretfully, I learned this morning that through negligence of an employee, Tech XX was left outside too long on Sunday evening and passed away from a heat stroke. 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.

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. Tech XX 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.

"

The weather in Ruston, Louisiana is hot and humid, with temperatures nearing 100 degrees on Wednesday. 

Heat is an issue for canines and humans alike, and the employee exacerbated a horrible turn of events by trying to cover it all up. 

The previous mascot, Tech XIX, was retired back in 2008 due to health concerns. Students and fans will move on once again after a tragic end to a beloved mascot. 

Follow me on Twitter. 

Follow @gabezal