Providence, RI - Rhode Island State Police say that the shooting death of a woman's Pit bull, "Champ" was an "unfortunate accident".
Accident or not, a beloved family companion is dead.
The tragedy happened on Wednesday morning when a fugitive task force was stationed outside of a home in Providence.
Though the task force was waiting for a fugitive to emerge, they were instead greeted by two dogs who had been let out for a potty break.
Moments after the dogs were let outside, shots were fired.
The officer who fired the three shots told the dog's owner that the dog "growled" at him.
Officials claim that the man "feared for his life".
Tragically, the woman and her dogs had nothing to do with the fugitive who was being sought.
Bad timing?
Irrational fear because of Champ's breed?
Accidental shootings by police officers have become almost common-place. Sadly, non-lethal methods for fending off dogs rarely seem to be an option.
Champ lived through the night, but died early Thursday from his multiple gunshot wounds.
His owner, who did not want to be identified, is left with thousands of dollars in veterinary bills - and grief.
According to NBC 10 news, the Rhode Island State Police intend to help the owner pay the veterinary bills.
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