Hampton, Va. – Hampton police are investigating after they say a police officer shot a pit bull to death on Monday.
Police described the animal as a “vicious canine”.
It happened on Monday, Fenruary 10, 2014 at 5:49 a.m. Hampton police responded to a complaint of a vicious canine in the 1600 block of West Pembroke Avenue.
The officer arrived at the scene and saw a pit bull tethered to a fence. The officer contacted Animal Control and waited for their arrival. When Animal Control arrived on scene, the canine freed itself from the tether and charged the police officer that had initially arrived on scene.
Fearing for his safety, the officer discharged one round, striking the canine. The canine was pronounced deceased at the scene.
As standard practice, for every police involved shooting, there will be two investigations that will run simultaneously; a criminal and an internal investigation.
The owner of the canine has not been located. Anyone that may have any information that may assist with the investigation or that will assist in locating the owner is encouraged to contact the Hampton Police Division at 727-6111 or the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.
