On July 20, 2023 around 11:30 a.m., a Larimer County Sheriff’s Office deputy was driving in the area of Lincoln Avenue and 1st Street in north Fort Collins. The deputy noticed a man struggling with a large dog near Buckingham Park. As he got closer, he saw that the dog was actively biting the man, who was unable to escape. The deputy physically intervened and several bystanders tried to help as well. They were briefly able to separate the dog from the victim, but the dog re-engaged and began attacking the man again.

After ensuring the safety of the bystanders, the deputy fired his duty weapon, striking and killing the dog. He then immediately applied a tourniquet to the injured man and began providing first aid. The man was transported to an area hospital for treatment of serious injuries. No other injuries were reported.

“Given the severity of the victim’s injuries and ongoing attack, quick and decisive action was necessary,” said LCSO Lieutenant Troy Badberg. “Nobody ever wants to end the life of an animal, and our deputy was forced with making a difficult choice to stop further serious harm to the man being mauled.”

The victim, several witnesses, and dog were all known to each other. LCSO will conduct an internal review of the deputy’s use of force in accordance with agency policy. Since the incident occurred within city limits, Fort Collins Police Services responded and will investigate the circumstances surrounding the dog attack. Anyone with information about the incident, who has not already spoken to law enforcement, may contact FCPS Officer Will Biberos at 970-419-3273.