CANOGA PARK, LOS ANGELES – What began as a joyful celebration of the New York Knicks’ NBA championship ended in tragedy on Saturday night when Los Angeles police officers shot and killed a family’s dog while responding to a disturbance call.
The Incident on Jordan Avenue
The incident occurred just after 8:00 p.m. at a condominium building on Jordan Avenue. Neighbors contacted police after hearing a woman screaming loudly inside one of the units.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), when officers arrived to check on the woman’s welfare, a dog rushed toward them. An officer opened fire, killing the animal in the hallway.
Misunderstood Celebration
Witnesses and family members revealed that the screaming heard by neighbors was actually excitement over the Knicks’ championship victory. A photograph taken just moments before the shooting showed the dog, a 2-year-old Golden Retriever, Saint Bernard, and Poodle mix named Jameson, wearing a New York Knicks shirt.
“We were just so happy. We were just celebrating the Knicks,” the owner was captured screaming on emotional cellphone video following the incident.
The owner’s son stated that Jameson was highly energetic due to the family’s excitement but was entirely non-violent.
Community Response and Investigation
Raymon Alvarez, a resident living across the street, reported hearing the loud screams followed by sudden gunfire. “I didn’t think they were gunshots at first because this area is not really known for any sort of gun violence,” Alvarez said.
A growing memorial of flowers and notes has been placed in the building’s hallway where Jameson died. The LAPD has confirmed that the specific circumstances leading up to the officer-involved shooting are currently under internal review.
