Family seeks answers after dog killed with 'makeshift spear'

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BROWNSVILLE, Texas (KVEO) — A Brownsville, Texas family finds themselves searching for answers after they say their dog was brutally killed with a “makeshift spear” in broad daylight.

Police say they are investigating the death of Chance, an 8-year-old Labrador mix.

Nexstar's KVEO spoke with Chance's owner, who asked to remain anonymous. He described Chance as a member of the family and said that although he occasionally came out of their yard, Chance always knew how to get home and that there had never been a problem with the dog being violent.

On the day of the attack, June 4, Chance's owner said he came home late from work and decided to take a nap. He didn't notice anything unusual that day and last saw Chance 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.”

KVEO 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 the dog 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.”

KVEO 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, sharing his advice with other pet owners.

“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.”

Those with information regarding Chance's death 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.