San Antonio Family Seeks Justice After Dogs Are Shot
In a heart-wrenching incident that unfolded on October 27 in San Antonio, a couple is coming to terms with the tragic loss of their beloved dogs, one of which was a registered service animal. Trey and Saybra Sekula are devastated after a San Antonio police officer shot and killed their dogs in their own yard.
A Normal Day Turns Tragic
The Sekulas were having what they thought would be a typical Sunday afternoon when things took a devastating turn. “Saybra opened the door, and then I heard a gunshot. I ran to the back door to find both of our dogs dying on the back porch,” Trey recalled, his voice shaking with emotion. Only moments before, the couple was blissfully unaware of the impending tragedy.
It all began when the Sekulas heard a knock at their front door. The police officer, responding to a 911 call, knocked before entering the property when there was no answer. According to the police report, he heard what he described as “screaming and cursing” coming from the home but did not clarify who or what was making the sounds.
Moments of Horror
As the officer stepped onto the property, video footage captured by a nearby source indicates that his gun was already drawn before the dogs even appeared in view. “I remember screaming, ‘Stop it, stop it. Stop it. Stop. Stop it,’ and then he shot her in the head,” Saybra said, tears streaming as she recalled the sheer horror of the moment. It is truly heartbreaking to hear a pet parent express such unthinkable grief.
The Aftermath
Despite the officer claiming he “feared for his safety,” the Sekulas are demanding justice. They believe that given the circumstances, the use of lethal force was wholly inappropriate. “There’s no reason for deadly force when the dogs were just being dogs,” Trey emphasized. “They were family, and they were both taken immediately from us without even a chance.”
The couple feels that because one of the dogs was a certified service animal, there should be even more accountability for the actions taken that day. “He should be charged as a civilian, you know, just like anyone else would. She was a service dog,” Saybra asserted. It’s essential that all animals, especially those that help us navigate the world, are treated with dignity and respect.
City’s Response
In an unexpected twist, the Sekulas received a citation from the City of San Antonio for having “two canines who were found to be free of restraint,” highlighting the precarious position they find themselves in. “We were doing nothing wrong,” Trey shared, frustration evident in his voice.
A History of Incidents
This isn’t an isolated case for the San Antonio police. Reports show that there have been other instances where SAPD officers have shot multiple dogs, raising concerns among residents about the training and protocols in place when dealing with animals. The Sekula family is left wondering how many more have suffered similar fates.
As the investigation into this heartbreaking incident continues, the Sekulas hope that their voice will lead to justice and policy changes to prevent future occurrences. As Trey put it, “I certainly hope that this man does not have a firearm. You know, it’s the very bare minimum.”
Community’s Support
The community is watching this case closely, and many are expressing their condolences and support for the Sekula family. The bond between families and their dogs is profound, and the loss of such companions is irreplaceable. It’s essential to advocate for the safe and humane treatment of all creatures, especially in situations involving law enforcement.
As updates emerge from the investigation, the family and their supporters remain hopeful for justice and systemic changes that will uphold the rights and lives of all innocent beings.
