Queensland Police have defended the actions of an officer who shot a dog just minutes after it was run over by a patrol car. The incident occurred on Mill Street in Pioneer, Mount Isa, around 3:40 PM on Sunday, while police were en route to an unrelated call-out.
According to police, a supervising officer arrived within three minutes and found the dog showing "obvious trauma injuries" and in significant distress. The decision was made to euthanise the animal immediately, and an officer fired two shots.
A video uploaded to social media shows officers gathered on the road beside the dog before two shots are heard. Distressed locals were reportedly watching, and one woman was led away from the scene.
"The dog is believed to have come from under or behind a parked car and was run over," police said in a statement. "Neither the driver nor the passenger saw the dog prior to the impact."
The dog continued to wag its tail after the first shot, prompting the second shot. Police stated, "The decision was made to euthanise the dog immediately to avoid further suffering for the animal. This incident was traumatic for the officers involved, the community, and the dog's family, however it was considered the humane and only option available."
Senior officers have reportedly spoken with the dog's family. Some viewers questioned why the dog was not taken to a vet for euthanasia. Police said body-worn camera footage was reviewed and "confirmed the animal was significantly injured and the actions taken by officers was to prevent prolonged suffering and further distress."
"All police use of force incidents, including the lethal use of force against an animal, are recorded and reviewed by senior officers, and the decisions and actions are reviewed in accordance with policy and procedures," the statement added.
RSPCA Queensland acknowledged the incident, stating: "Any seriously injured animal should receive prompt assistance, and where euthanasia is the best option to prevent further suffering, it should be carried out promptly, using a method that minimises pain, fear and distress." The organisation declined further comment as the matter is under review by Queensland Police.
