Family seeks answers after dog killed with 'makeshift spear'

Warning: This story contains graphic information.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) – A Brownsville family is searching for answers after their pet of nearly a decade was brutally killed with a “makeshift spear” in broad daylight.

A police investigation is underway after Chance, an 8-year-old Labrador mix, was killed in a neighborhood near Brownsville's Four Corners neighborhood with what appears to be a homemade weapon.

ValleyCentral spoke with Chance's owner, who asked that we not use his name. He described Chance as a member of the family and said he came out of their garden from time to time, but always knew how to get home. He said there was never a problem with Chance being violent.

On the day of the attack, Chance's owner said he came home late from work and decided to take a nap. According to him, nothing unusual that day, Tuesday June 4, and he had seen Chance for the last time around 3 p.m.

Less than four hours later, he was awakened by the cries of a family member, saying their dog was dead in the front yard; the weapon was still lodged in the dog's body. He described the weapon as a “makeshift spear.”

“We're talking about a 4-inch knife, with a 2-inch handle with another 2 inches of PVC pipe inside my dog,” he said. “I don’t even like saying the term dog, he was like my son.”

ValleyCentral has viewed photos of the aftermath, which appear to show Chance impaled by a kitchen blade attached to a PVC pipe near his abdomen.

Chance's owner found bloodstains along the street and believes he was able to return home despite the injuries sustained before his death.

“I can’t think of anyone who would want to commit such a heinous crime, especially with something so horrific to this extent,” he said. “Even in the neighborhood, we haven’t heard of anyone having problems with my dog.”

ValleyCentral spoke with Detective Michael Parker of the Brownsville Police Department, who said the case remains under investigation and there are currently no suspects. Parker reminded the public that these crimes are not common.

“This is an isolated incident,” Parker said. “It’s not something that happens often.”

Cruelty to animals other than livestock is a third-degree felony unless the suspect has a prior conviction, Parker said. Plus, he shared tips for keeping your pets safe.

“Be sure to keep your pets safe, supervise them at all times and ensure they are on your premises,” Parker said. “And be vigilant of the surrounding areas and make sure nothing out of the ordinary happens.”

Persons with information are asked to contact the Brownsville Police Department or Brownsville Crime Stoppers at (956) 546-TIPS (8477) if they wish to remain anonymous.

“He was my best friend, we did everything together,” Chance’s owner said. “I’ve built a really strong bond with him over the last eight years and it’s sad to see him follow through with what he’s done.”

Chance was buried in their garden, with a plant placed over the grave.