CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Police shot and killed a suspect late Saturday night moments after the man shot and killed a police canine.
A news release from Charleston Police Chief of Detectives Lt. Tony Hazelett said police were called to the 100 block of East Point Drive at around 11:10 p.m. Saturday after receiving a report that a man, wanted by police, was there.
Hazelett said police learned the man had fled the residence and headed toward the wood line. A Charleston police canine was sent in to apprehend the suspect.
“During the apprehension, the suspect produced a firearm,” the news release said. “The suspect then shot and killed the police canine.”
Charleston police officers were “at a very close distance” when the man shot the canine, Hazelett said.
“Charleston police officers returned gunfire striking the suspect. The suspect was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased,” the release said.
No names of those involved have been released.
Charleston Police Chief Tyke Hunt is expected to hold a news conference about the incident soon.
The deadly shooting comes less than 48 hours after a deadly shooting on Frame Street. Police have charged Vondell Collins, 35, with second degree murder in the death of Dontaze Mosley, 34.
Police said Mosley was shot in the chest during an argument with Collins Friday afternoon. Police have a warrant out for Collins’ arrest.
The killing prompted an emotional response from Charleston Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin on the subject of violent crime in the Capital City.
“I’m sick of this, and so is every member of our community. I’m tired of it, and this continues to happen time and time again,” Goodwin told MetroNews.