David Michael Matson beat puppy to death, admits to killing another 5 or 6

TENNESSEE -- An animal rescue group director who prefers to remain anonymous is spreading the word about a man accused of seeking out dogs and violently killing them.

David Michael Matson is due in court next month for aggravated animal cruelty, but some worry other animals are at risk.

David Michael Matson

"People are absolutely sickened and scared," said the anonymous director. "People like this are out there cruising for animals to pick up and kill. We are speaking for those who don't have voices of their own. We have to stand up for those animals."

Lebanon police said last November, Matson was spotted in the wooded area behind the Cumberland Street McDonalds covered in blood. After initially claiming he'd fallen on a rock, police said Matson admitted to picking up a puppy in Alexandria, beating it to death with a tire iron and then throwing the small animal against a tree.

"This one's very scary because he's right here in Middle Tennessee," said the director. "He's admitted to doing it."

Police add Matson claimed he was angry he was passed up for a promotion at the National Weather Service and admitted to killing another five or six dogs. The report quotes Matson as asking officers if they ever wanted to hurt animals or maybe children.

Police said while rambling, Matson also brought up the unsolved shooting death of Sara McPhearson at a Mt. Juliet U-Store-It from the day before and then changed the subject again. Mt. Juliet police said they do not believe Matson is connected to the murder.

We spoke with Matson at his home in Old Hickory, where he declined to appear on camera but did tell us he's on paid administrative leave at the National Weather Service until his case is resolved.

The National Weather Service said they're legally unable to comment on Matson's case.

Matson's case has been bound over to the grand jury. His arraignment is set for May 24.

(WSMV - April 30, 2013)