The Mercury News

San Jose police officers shoot at dogs that charged them

- By Mark Gomez mgomez@bayareanew­sgroup.com Contact Mark Gomez at 408-920-5869.

SAN JOSE » Ismael Moran said he was home asleep early Wednesday morning, unaware that family members had gotten into an argument and called 911 to report a family disturbanc­e.

Moran woke up to the sound of two gunshots, and then whimpering from his three Rottweiler­s.

San Jose police officers responding to Moran’s house in the 3000 block of Florence Avenue, located near Alum Rock Avenue and South White Road, attempted to get to the front door by entering a metal fence around the front yard.

Once the officers passed through the gate, the dogs rushed at them.

The officers fired at least two shots, Moran said, and hit one of the dogs, Oso, in the leg.

“They went inside the gate,” said Moran, adding he understood the actions taken by officers.

“They didn’t see the dogs, because the dogs were in the back. The dogs, as soon as they heard the noise, they rushed in as well. They’re dogs. They’re animals. They’re here to protect.

“And they’re good dogs. I have kids here. Nephews, nieces. They have no problems with anybody.”

Oso was taken to a vet to be treated for the wound, Moran said. The dog is expected to be OK.

At 5:44 a.m., the officers responded to the home after receiving a call about a disturbanc­e, according to San Jose police.

Two officers were greeted by the charging dogs and opened fire. The dogs retreated to the backyard and hid under a vehicle, according to Officer Gina Tepoorten.

There was not a visible “Beware of dog” sign hanging around the metal gate.

Officers with the San Jose Animal Care and Services responded to the scene.

Moran said relatives living in a granny unit called police.

San Jose police confirmed no one was arrested.

 ?? PHOTO BY MARK GOMEZ ?? One of three Rottweiler­s that San Jose police shot at when the dogs charged at officers responding to a report of a disturbanc­e on Florence Avenue on Wednesday.
PHOTO BY MARK GOMEZ One of three Rottweiler­s that San Jose police shot at when the dogs charged at officers responding to a report of a disturbanc­e on Florence Avenue on Wednesday.

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