A family pet was mistakenly shot by Prince Rupert RCMP on Friday night.
Two gun shots rang out in the Sherbrook Ave. area shortly after 11 p.m on Dec. 14, shots that came after residents witnessed a number of cruisers going up and down the street.
According to Cst. Matt Ericson of the Prince Rupert RCMP, members responded to a call about a wolf in the 500 block of Sherbook Ave. upon arrival they saw what they believed to be a wolf running across the street chasing a deer into McClymont Park. Due to safety concerns for those in the neighbourhood and around McClymont Park, members began searching for the animal.
“The officers believed it to be a wolf, it looked like a wolf, and it wasn't until the animal was put down that officers determined it was actually a dog,” said Ericson, noting that the owners confirmed the animal was a hybrid wolf-dog.
“It is very unfortunate that this incident occurred and we offer our sincere apologies to the owner of the animal. We have been in continued contact with the owner who is obviously very upset, but has also been understanding given the circumstances of the situation... The member is beside himself right now because he's an animal lover too.”
This year the city of Prince Rupert has seen a significant increase in the wolf population and to date has received 11 calls for service involving wolves since the beginning of November. The Prince Rupert RCMP would like to remind the community to keep their animals confined while at home and to use a leashes when out walking.
In the event that members of the community observe wolves within the city they are asked to contact Conservation at 1-877-952-7277 or the Prince Rupert RCMP at 250-627-0700.