It’s really hard to read this heartbreaking story. On Saturday night, an 18-week-old puppy was shot and killed by a police officer in the yard of its home which is located in the Lower Garden District. The New Orleans Police Department received a 911 call Saturday night of a complaint about loud voices.

According to Nola.com, the officers responded to the call and went through a gate in the 1400 block of Felicity Street at 9:30 pm to investigate the situation. That’s when they encountered two dogs, one a puppy about 30 pounds and the other dog weighing about 65 pounds, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation. One of the officers fired a shot and killed the puppy, who’s name is Apollo.

Derek Brown and Julie Barecki-Brown had just adopted Apollo 2 months ago and they are devastated over the loss of their puppy. Derek Brown said that he and his wife were having an argument inside of their home, saying “married couples do that.” Derek said their two dogs were outside at the time. Julie heard the gate open, then the sound of three gunshots being fired. Derek said he ran out there and saw the puppy writhing. He said Apollo died within minutes. I just can’t imagine the horrifying shock they must have felt.

I feel responsible. It’s my job to protect that little guy. -  Derek Brown

Derek said it was obvious which cop shot him because he was distraught and kept saying “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry.”

A little background on Apollo was given from Marcus Gandy, the social media director for Trampled Rose Rescue and Rehab. Gandy said Apollo was one of ten puppies born to a recent rescue whose breeder had kept chained to a tree while pregnant. Gandy took care of Apollo while the new owners were being vetted. Gandy said they were a “lovely family.”

The police took Apollo’s remains for a follow-up investigation and necropsy. The NOPD’s Public Integrity Bureau is conducting an investigation.

R.I.P. little buddy.

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