Officer attacked by pit bull, shoots it in park

CONNECTICUT -- A New Haven police officer was forced to shoot an escaped pit bull who attacked him Wednesday, after the dog’s owner called police fearing for the safety of park goers.

Police said they received a call around 7:17 PM to the report of a “vicious dog” that couldn’t be controlled by its owner. The dog’s owner flagged down officers when they arrived to the College Wood’s area of East Rock Park, telling them the dog had escaped from the car.

The owner of the dog told police he feared for the safety of anyone in the area. While officers were yelling warnings to the people in the park, the pit bull attacked one of officers, biting down on his leg.

Police say the officer drew his gun and shot the dog twice.

The officer was taken to Saint Raphael Campus of Yale New Haven for treatment. No one else was hurt in the incident.

The deceased dog was taken to the Police Animal Shelter to get tested for rabies.

The owner of the dog was not charged.

(WTNH - July 10, 2014)