Man Cited After Dog Killed in Hopkinsville Attack

38-year-old John Sullivan faces charges for harboring a vicious animal and owner permitting a vicious dog to run at large.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A Hopkinsville, Kentucky man has been cited to court after his dog allegedly ran out of his backyard and attacked another dog, killing it in an incident on Tuesday afternoon.

Why it matters

Incidents of dog attacks and owners failing to properly contain their pets are an ongoing public safety concern in many communities. This case highlights the need for responsible pet ownership and enforcement of local animal control laws.

The details

According to Hopkinsville Police, 38-year-old John Sullivan has been cited to court for harboring a vicious animal and owner permitting a vicious dog to run at large. The charges stem from an incident on Tuesday where Sullivan's dog reportedly ran out of his backyard and attacked another dog, killing it.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon on Lucky Debonair Drive in Hopkinsville.

The players

John Sullivan

A 38-year-old Hopkinsville resident who was cited to court for harboring a vicious animal after his dog allegedly attacked and killed another dog.

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The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of pet owners being responsible and ensuring their animals do not pose a threat to public safety. It also highlights the need for stronger enforcement of local animal control laws to protect communities from dangerous dogs.