Arabic version: الشرطة تبرر euthanizing كلب بعد حادث مروري في ماونت آيسا

A dog has been struck by a police vehicle and later euthanased in Mount Isa, Queensland, sparking community outcry. According to ABC News, the incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when police were called to an unrelated matter on Mill Crescent.

Police reported that the animal, named Smokey and belonging to 15-year-old Kulaia-Gene Surha, suffered significant trauma injuries. A police spokesperson stated that the dog was in distress, necessitating immediate euthanasia to prevent further suffering. However, some residents questioned whether alternative options might have been available.

Sharlene Boddy, Kulaia-Gene’s grandmother, expressed her family’s devastation over the loss. She noted that although they understood the need for euthanasia, they were shocked to learn that officers intended to shoot the dog at the scene, especially with children nearby. Boddy questioned why police did not transport Smokey to a veterinary clinic for euthanasia instead.

Witnesses reported that three shots were fired, and Boddy alleged that officers did not adequately shield the area from public view during the shooting. She emphasized that Smokey was more than just a pet for her granddaughter, serving as a source of comfort.

In response to the backlash, Queensland Police defended their decision, stating that the dog was showing obvious trauma injuries and was in distress, making immediate euthanasia the most humane and only option available. They acknowledged the traumatic nature of the incident for all parties involved and confirmed that body-worn camera footage supported their account of the dog’s condition.