Queensland police have come under fire after a graphic video emerged of officers shooting a pet dog in the middle of a street in Mount Isa, following an accidental collision with their vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 3:40 pm on Sunday afternoon in the outback mining city, leaving distressed residents screaming and wailing as the dog was euthanized.
Details of the Incident
According to a statement from Queensland police, officers in a marked vehicle left an address on Mill Crescent in Mount Isa at low speed when a dog, believed to have come from under or behind a parked car, was run over. Neither the driver nor the passenger saw the dog prior to impact. A supervising officer arrived at the scene within three minutes and found the dog showing obvious signs of trauma and distress. The decision was made to euthanize the dog immediately to prevent further suffering.
The dog, identified by the ABC as Smokey, belonged to a 15-year-old girl. The graphic footage posted on social media shows onlookers in distress, with one resident being led away wailing and pulling at her hair as shots rang out. Witnesses can be heard shouting, "That's a pet!" and "That's that little girl's dog. She loved that dog." The dog, lying motionless on its side, was seen wagging its tail frantically even after the second shot.
Community and Family Reaction
The incident has sparked outrage among residents and the dog's family. The grandmother of the 15-year-old owner, Sharlene Boddy, alleged that police fired three shots before Smokey died and questioned why officers did not transport the animal to a veterinary clinic for euthanasia. The police statement noted that all use of force incidents are reviewed by senior officers, and body-worn camera footage confirmed the animal was significantly injured, with actions taken to prevent prolonged suffering.
Animal Rights Groups Speak Out
Animal rights groups have criticized the incident, arguing that euthanasia should be conducted with sensitivity. RSPCA Queensland said it was aware of the distressing footage involving a dog reportedly injured after being struck by a police vehicle. The group emphasized that any seriously injured animal should receive prompt assistance, and where euthanasia is the best option, it should be carried out promptly using a method that minimizes pain, fear, and distress.
The incident continues to draw attention, with calls for a thorough review of police procedures in handling such situations.
