Massachusetts police officer shoots and kills dog after being attacked and bitten

Responding to a 911 hang-up call, a Massachusetts police officer who was reportedly attacked and bitten by a dog, fired at the dog, killing it.

According to Acting Police Chief Ed Burman, on Monday, October 3rd, at approximately 11:20 a.m., a Wayland Police officer was dispatched to a home on Concord Road to investigate after a person called 911 and hung up. Upon arrival, the officer knocked on the door of the home and began speaking with the homeowner. As the pair were speaking, a dog — later determined to be a pit bull mix — allegedly darted out of the house and attacked the officer, biting him multiple times.

The officer began to retreat to his vehicle and the dog continued to pursue and attack him. In response to the attack, and faced with immediate danger, the officer discharged his firearm, shooting and killing the dog. The dog’s owner was not nearby when the officer discharged the weapon.

The officer was transported to an area hospital by ambulance for treatment for multiple bite wounds. Wayland PD stated that since this is a use of force incident, there will be a complete investigation.

A preliminary investigation indicates that the dog had a history and was previously the subject of prior complaints about aggressive behavior in Wayland.

“This is a very difficult and unfortunate situation,” Acting Chief Burman said. “The safety of our officers and community members is of the utmost importance, and anytime an officer has to use force, we take it very seriously. We will investigate this incident to ensure we have the fullest possible understanding of what occurred.”

Police determined that the original 911 call was accidental and originated from a child in the home.