On Monday, December 3, 2018, at approximately 6:17 a.m., police were dispatched to a house in the 700 block of Cameron Street for a 9-1-1 call, where the caller hung up. As units made their way to the dispatch address, it was learned that there was a fire at the residence and there were still people inside. Firefighters were dispatched but police units in the area were at the scene first. One police vehicle, with two officers, came to the alley at the back of the residence; another arrived at the front of the house. The officers in the alley made their way toward the house, which was now issuing smoke. The officer observed a male, who was bleeding, at the rear of the property. He was helped to his feet and instructed to make his way, away from the house, to the alley. At this time, a large dog was circling the police vehicle, barking and acting aggressively. The officers called for Animal Control to attend and then turned their attention to the front of the house, believing other people to be inside.
At the front of the house, the officers learned two adults and two children had exited the house and had been accounted for. The officers went back to the rear of the property to locate the injured male, who it was later learned, had sustained his injuries when he jumped through a window to escape the fire. This individual had taken refuge in the police car and the dog, which also lived at that residence, was outside the car. When the officers attempted to enter the vehicle to assist the injured man, the dog charged at one officer, who drew his sidearm and discharged it twice. One round struck the animal. The injured male was taken to hospital by EMS. Animal Control recovered the animal a short time later and took it for surgery. After surgery, it was determined more veterinary care would be needed. The owner was located and notified; it is expected the dog will be euthanized.
The discharge of the firearm will be reviewed as a use of force. Reports have been submitted to the Service’s Use of Force Review board.