Royal Sun had been with the Toronto Police Mounted Unit since 2000. (Toronto Police Service)

The Toronto Police Mounted Unit has lost one of its finest.

Royal Sun, 16 years old, died this week.

The 12-year veteran was put down in an equine hospital after being badly injured while on patrol in the Entertainment Dictrict on Nov. 4.

According to police the horse tore a ligament in his hind, which led to a severe leg fracture.

“It’s a very sad day for us,” Staff-Inp. William Wardle said in a news release.

“We look at the horses as members of our unit and it is our responsibility to care for them, so it’s difficult to lose them," Wardle said.

Royal Sun had been with the mounted unit since 2000.

He was named after the Royal Winter Fair and the Toronto Sun which donated the horse.

“As big and intimidating as he could be, he was also the most gentle creature," said Const. Patrick Penney.

A private memorial service is being planned.