FIRST ON 3: Wilmington Police shoot dog during arrest

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Witnesses say a Wilmington Police Officer shot a family’s dog during an arrest Sunday night. Police say the pitbull ran towards them after they arrested a man on Rankin Street in Wilmington.

The dog was shot four times, which police say is protocal in a situation when an animal is aggressive towards officers.

Witnesses say the dog did not run at the group of officers but instead just walked towards them. They say their family pet was killed needlessly and the police should have just arrested the suspect and left the area.

Police did not release any details on the suspect that was arrested but say he is a convicted felon.