Press Article
Northbridge Animal Control Officer Mistakenly Shoots Family Dog
NORTHBRIDGE, MA – A tragic incident occurred on Tuesday when an animal control officer shot and killed a pet dog, mistaking it for a coyote. According to Northbridge Police Chief Timothy Labrie, the officer mistook the dog’s appearance for that of a coyote, resulting in an unfortunate misidentification. “This was an honest mistake in identity,” Labrie stated.
Earlier that day, the police department received two calls regarding coyote sightings. A resident on Fowler Road reported a coyote in their backyard, prompting the animal control officer to search the nearby woods. In distress, the resident let out a “blood-curdling scream” when the officer believed he spotted the coyote approaching with its “nose down, head down, hair up.” Upon getting within ten yards, the officer shot the animal, which was later identified as a husky named Odin.
The dog belonged to Kirk Rumford, who described Odin as "the friendliest dog" and a "big goofball." Rumford expressed heartache over the incident but did not comment further when approached by the media. Labrie noted this was the first case of mistaken identity in the officer’s 21-year career, and he emphasized that the officer would not face punishment.
The Northbridge Police launched an investigation and determined the dog had a history of escaping from its home. With hunting season underway, Labrie advised dog owners to outfit their pets in identifiable gear to avoid similar situations in the future.
The community is left mourning the loss of a beloved pet, as discussions about coyote sightings continue to heighten in the area.
Source
Photo credit www.boston.com
