Charges unlikely for man who shot and killed attacking dog in Seattle
Mar 17, 2025, 2:25 PM | Updated: 2:26 pm
Police are unlikely to charge a man in the death of a dog. (Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
Seattle Police continue to investigate, but say charges are unlikely against a Seattle man who shot and killed a dog that was attacking his own dog.
It happened Wednesday, March 12 on First Hill. The man told police he was walking his dog near the corner of 9th and Marion when another dog, off leash, attacked his dog. When attempts to separate the dogs were unsuccessful, the man drew his gun and fired a single shot.
“The aggressive dog got on top of the other dog, pinned him to the ground, and then mauled the dog. When this continued to happen, in order to protect his dog, the subject shot and killed the dog,” SPD Detective Eric Munoz said.
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Shooting a dog, in this context, is lawful
Both dog owners called 911 and remained at the scene. Police say the gun owner has a concealed carry permit and appears to have been within the law when he pulled the trigger.
“According to Washington state law, RCW 16.08.020, it is lawful for any person to shoot a dog chasing, fighting, injuring, or killing a domestic animal. Usually this applies to farm animals but it also does apply to domestic animals like dogs. So, you’re well within your rights to protect yourself and your property, essentially your domestic animal,” Detective Munoz said.
The investigation is ongoing, but no decision has been made as to when to refer any charges to prosecutors.
Lose-lose situation
Detective Munoz calls the incident a no-win situation.
“If you have to use self-defense to protect yourself and shoot a dog, it is also a very difficult thing to bear. This is not a good outcome for anyone involved. This is still a very sad story,” Munoz said.
