Here’s everything we know so far about the shocking crime, which happened on Abbeydale Road during the early hours of Friday, July 24.
1. When did it happen and where exactly?
Police said they were called at 1.10pm on Friday, July 24, to reports of a dog being shot. When officers arrived they found a dog with shotgun wounds, which sadly had to be put down. There were two cordons in place this morning, one blocking the road close to the junction with Farrar Road and another slightly further south where the pavement was sealed off and a pool of blood could be seen outside Talk Time phone shop. Photo: JPI Media
2. What did people see and hear?
People living nearby reported being woken by six 'really loud bangs' in the space of around 15 seconds. They said three police vehicles were at the scene within minutes. Photo: JPI Media
3. What has the reaction been so far?
People have reacted with horror to news of the dog's death, and the fact this is the third shooting in the area in the space of two nights. A community leader has warned the area is ‘becoming a battleground’ for rival gangs after a series of raids, in which 98 people were arrested, reduced the supply of drugs. Sahira Irshad, who set up the community group Mums United to combat violent crime in the area, welcomed the fact police are taking action but fears it may have brought matters to a head between warring gangs. “I’m scared and I think the rest of the community’s scared to let their children out because you don’t know when or where it’s going to happen, or what might trigger it," she said. (photo credit: John Quays) Photo: John Quays
4. What do we know so far about the dog?
Further details about the dog, including its breed, age and owner, have not yet been released. But one person living in the area has claimed the dog belonged to a suspected gang member. Photo: JPI Media