The dog that seriously injured an 11-year-old boy in Barrie earlier this week is dead.
Police say officers located the dog around 2:30 Thursday morning in the area of Tiffin Street and Patterson Road.
"While attempting to capture the animal, it became aggressive, and due to the immediate safety threat, an officer discharged their weapon, resulting in the dog's death," police said in a news release. "Barrie Police recognize incidents involving the death of any animal can be distressing for community members. However, the actions taken by our officers were necessary to protect themselves and the community at large from an ongoing threat."
The search for the dog--described as a large bully breed, possibly a mastiff--was the subject of a days-long search after a child was attacked around 8:45 Monday morning in the area of Essa Road and Loggers Run. Police said the child was riding a scooter at the time of the incident and had tried to get away from the dog.
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The boy remains in stable condition at a local hospital.
Investigators believe the dog may have injured several people and are asking anyone who may have been bitten to contact police.
The City of Barrie's bylaw department is now leading the investigation with assistance from Barrie Police.
The owner of the dog has not been located.
