In response to a vicious dog attack in Mannering, Calderwood, East Kilbride, armed police were dispatched to the scene, ultimately resorting to shooting the animal after attempts to contain it failed. The incident occurred at approximately 10:25 am on Sunday, prompting a lockdown of the entire street.
A distressing video circulating online captured the moment when an officer, after counting to 10, discharged a firearm, resulting in the yelping of the aggressive dog. The situation unfolded after the dog, described as “dangerously out of control,” had attacked a 14-year-old Collie, leaving three people with minor injuries. The extent of their injuries and whether hospital treatment was necessary is yet to be confirmed.
An ongoing investigation seeks to determine the breed of the aggressive dog, with the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) conducting a probe due to the involvement of a firearm in the incident.
Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing event, describing how the Collie was attacked, enduring the assault for approximately 10 minutes before intervention prevented further harm. Some locals questioned the use of lethal force, suggesting the possibility of tranquilizing the dog instead.
A resident, who witnessed the incident, voiced concerns, asking, “If the dog attacked another dog, why was there any need for armed police to shoot it? Did it bite a person?” Others criticized the use of lethal force, deeming it “vile, inhumane, and an absolute disgrace.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson provided a statement, explaining, “Local officers attended and attempted to restrain the dog, which was dangerously out of control. Armed officers subsequently attended, and the dog was shot dead by police. Three people reported receiving minor injuries during this incident.” Ongoing inquiries are focused on establishing the breed of the dog, and a police presence will be maintained in the area during the investigation.
The incident draws attention to concerns within the community, echoing a recent event in Hamilton’s Tinto View where armed police were compelled to use force against a bully-type dog. In that case, the dog was tasered and shot four times, leading to a 48-year-old man being reported to the Procurator Fiscal for alleged offenses in breach of the Dangerous Dog Act.
