BCSO: Off-duty deputy kills dog after safety concerns by neighbors

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — An off-duty Brunswick County Sheriff deputy shot and killed a dog named Ruby in the River Hill subdivision Thursday after it was seen running around the neighborhood causing safety concerns for residents.

The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office says an email was sent out to the residents in the subdivision around 10:20 a.m. in reference to a possible wild animal at large in the area of Pine Hill Drive.

However Ruby’s owner, Amanda Paterson said she never received an email from the sheriff’s office.

Residents reported seeing an animal, possibly a coyote or wolf, with another animal in its mouth and blood on its face. Several of the neighbors, including an off-duty BCSO deputy, attempted to locate the animal.

Deputies say the residents armed themselves for safety as there have been other reports of coyotes in the area recently.

While in the deputy’s yard, the animal appeared and started towards him and other people gathered in his yard. The off-duty deputy then used his personal gun to killed the animal.

After the shooting, it was discovered that the animal was a dog owned by one of the neighbors. The dog had no collar nor any identification.

Brunswick County Sheriff Animal Protective Services has investigated the incident. They say after speaking with numerous residents, it was determined that the actions taken by the deputy were justified.

BCSO says while unfortunate, the incident is a reminder of the importance of keeping animals secure.

Paterson sent WWAY the following statement:

“She was a loving and wonderful rescue pet from BCAPS. We loved her and will miss her dearly,” Paterson wrote.