SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — A Springfield zoo has euthanized a 37-year-old bull elephant that was known for his throwing abilities. The elephant, “Khun Chorn,” was found lying in the barn at the Dickerson Park Zoo on Saturday.

Zookeepers unsuccessfully tried to encourage him to stand. They even called the fire department to assist.

The elephant,” known locally as “Mr. Ed,” was sedated and allowed him to rest while zookeepers observed him throughout the night. He was euthanized after another unsuccessful attempt to get him to stand.

The elephant was born at the zoo in Portland, Oregon, and arrived at Dickerson Park Zoo in 1980. When he was a juvenile, zookeepers taught him to throw a softball. He even threw a ceremonial first pitch at a Springfield sports complex.