Suspect Arrested After Fatally Shooting Dog Owner in Leesburg

Matthew Pasco taken into custody for shooting after dog attack incident

Apr. 19, 2026 at 6:54pm

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An extreme close-up of a spent shell casing on a dark, textured surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating the violence of the fatal shooting incident.A grim reminder of the deadly consequences when law enforcement is forced to respond to violent confrontations involving both people and animals.Leesburg Today

A 43-year-old man has been arrested in Leesburg, Florida after fatally shooting a dog owner in an attempt to shoot the dog during an attack on a woman near a homeless camp. The victim was transported to a hospital where he later died, while the woman attacked by the dog was also hospitalized for treatment.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in responding to violent confrontations involving both people and animals, especially in areas with vulnerable populations like homeless encampments. It also raises questions about the use of lethal force and whether alternative de-escalation tactics could have prevented the loss of life.

The details

According to the Lake County Sheriff's Office, on April 17th, Matthew Pasco fatally shot a dog owner after the victim's dog reportedly attacked a woman near a homeless camp in the area of Griffin Road and Tally Box Road in Leesburg. Pasco was later taken into custody by the Leesburg Police Department on Sunday. The shooting prompted area schools to be placed on lockdown as Pasco was considered armed and dangerous during the search.

  • The incident occurred on April 17, 2026.
  • Pasco was arrested by Leesburg police on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Matthew Pasco

A 43-year-old man who was arrested for fatally shooting a dog owner in an attempt to shoot the dog during an attack on a woman.

The Victim

A man who was fatally shot by Pasco after his dog reportedly attacked a woman near a homeless camp. His name has not been released.

The Injured Woman

A woman who was attacked by the dog and taken to the hospital for treatment.

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What’s next

Pasco is expected to face charges related to the fatal shooting. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The takeaway

This tragic event underscores the need for better crisis intervention and de-escalation training for law enforcement when responding to volatile situations involving both people and animals, especially in vulnerable communities.