'Aggressive' dog shot, killed by police, owner arrested

NEW YORK -- A dog is dead and its owner is facing charges after the animal allegedly attacked another dog and several people Friday.

According to Owego Police, at approximately 5:40 p.m. police responded to 59 Spencer Ave. in the village after receiving reports of an aggressive dog that was on the loose after breaking through a fence.

While on the way, officers were flagged down near the intersection of Main and Church streets by a man who was bleeding from the mouth.

Police say the man told officers that he and his dog had been attacked by another dog. The man told police the dog lunged up and bit him in the face.

Officers immediately located a young boy, holding the dog by its rear legs. The dog is a male American Pit Bull Terrier, which was 20-months-old when seen by a veterinarian in April 2015. This is according to vet records obtained by police.

As one officer tossed a leash to the boy, the dog broke loose and attacked the other officer. The dog allegedly bit his left hand, and knocked the officer to the ground.

According to police, after a brief struggle, the dog broke loose and charged at the second officer, who fired two shots at the dog, striking the animal's torso. The dog ran toward Spencer Avenue, and the officer followed him, until the dog stopped and came toward the officer aggressively.

At that point, the officer shot the dog a third time.

Police said the dog wandered onto a neighboring porch, where he later died from his injuries.

The dog owner originally left the scene, but was later located at an apartment on North Avenue, and taken into custody.

Alfred Thornton, 48, of 64 Spencer Ave. was arrested under New York State Agriculture and Markets Law for allowing a dangerous dog, a misdemeanor, and dog running at large, a violation of Village Ordinance.

Thornton was issued appearance tickets and released.

The officer was treated at the scene and later at the hospital where he received several stitches for his injuries, according to a press release issued by the Owego Police Department.

The investigation is continuing and further charges are pending.

(WBNJ - Aug 1, 2015)