Chicago Police Shoot at Charging Dog During Wellness Check

No injuries reported as officers fire at but miss the dog in Roseland neighborhood incident.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 10:19am

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Chicago police officers fired their weapons at a charging dog during a well-being check in the city's Roseland neighborhood early Friday morning, but the animal was not hit. No injuries were reported, and the dog's owner was able to secure the pet inside the residence.

Why it matters

Incidents involving police using force against animals, even in self-defense, can raise concerns about de-escalation tactics and the use of lethal force, especially in situations where no human lives are immediately threatened.

The details

According to the Chicago Police Department, the officers were conducting a well-being check around 3 a.m. in the 11200 block of South Eggleston Avenue when a dog charged towards them. Both officers then fired their guns in the dog's direction, but did not strike the animal. The dog's owner was able to secure the pet inside the home, and no injuries were reported. Police have not announced any charges related to the incident.

  • The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026.

The players

Chicago Police Department

The local law enforcement agency responsible for policing the city of Chicago, Illinois.

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The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for continued training and protocols around de-escalation tactics when police encounter animals, in order to avoid the use of lethal force except in the most extreme circumstances where human safety is at immediate risk.