TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - A family is still in shock and filled with tears as they mourn the lost of their dog Kalie, who died after being shot by a Tallahassee police officer Saturday.
"He brutally killed her in front of me and it was the worst thing ever, it was horrible," eyewitness Holly Fennell told WTXL Sunday.
A TPD press release issued Saturday stated an officer approached the residence on Idlewild Drive in reference to a "verbal disturbance" report.
Kalie's owner Orion Rabon told WTXL a neighbor had called police.
"We're just basically watching a movie. I didn't hear any barks or nothing," Rabon said. "All I hear is gunshots -- multiple gunshots -- and Holly screams, 'Oh, my gosh. The police officer is shooting your dog.'"
Witnesses told WTXL a TPD officer walked into the family's yard and took five shots at their dog -- a 12-year-old Rottweiler -- standing at a distance.
"This cop came here unannounced," Rabon said. "There is 'private property' signs all over my property letting people know that this is private property."
The TPD press release stated, "Upon the responding officer approaching the scene on foot, a large dog charged towards the officer. The officer fired several shots and struck the dog."
The family told WTXL that Kalie had multiple surgeries and suffered from hip dysplasia -- and find it hard to believe the dog would have the ability to charge at the officer.
Those who said they knew Kalie -- registered with the American Kennel Club and used for breeding service and show dogs -- said she was not aggressive.
"We've never had a problem," eyewitness Devan-Erin Isbell said. "She's constantly being lovey, and the most she'd want to do is lick somebody to death. She's not aggressive in any way."
According to police, Kalie and Rabon were taken to a local animal hospital, but Kalie had to be euthanized because of the injuries.
Rabon said he'll be pressing charges against TPD and the neighbor who reported the initial incident.
WTXL reached out to TPD to respond to allegations made by Rabon and eyewitnesses. A spokesperson declined further comment due to an ongoing Internal Affairs investigation.
The family is collecting donations to help pay for Kalie's funeral and for an attorney.
