Little Rock, Arkansas – The Little Rock Police Department has released more information about an incident in The Heights that ended with an officer shooting and killing a dog outside a home Sunday.
According to a Tuesday news release from the department, officers were first sent to Hill Station, located at 2712 Kavanaugh Boulevard, after receiving a call about a customer causing a disturbance. Police said they were informed that 34-year-old Thomas Schmidt had been drinking alcohol and became increasingly upset while inside the business.
Officers at the scene were shown a video by a witness that reportedly captured Schmidt refusing to leave the business and behaving aggressively toward employees. The police release said the video showed him “acting confrontational with staff, and attempting to initiate physical conflicts.”
The department also stated that Schmidt allegedly kicked and damaged the business’s front door before leaving the location. Police said he then drove away in a reckless manner.
While officers were still handling the situation at the Kavanaugh Boulevard address, another officer was dispatched to a separate call at a home located at 4822 Country Club Boulevard. The call involved a reported battery complaint.
When the officer arrived at the Country Club Boulevard home, police said Schmidt came outside with a black Labrador Retriever. According to the department’s account, Schmidt initially told the officer that the dog was under control.
However, officials said the situation changed quickly.
The release stated that Schmidt “indicated the dog was under control,” but “moments later the dog ran toward the officer in an aggressive manner while barking.”
Police said the officer attempted to avoid the approaching dog by creating more distance. According to the release, the officer “tried to create distance to avoid the encounter,” but the dog continued moving toward the officer, leading the officer to fire a weapon. The dog died as a result of the shooting.
The Little Rock Police Department acknowledged the emotional response surrounding the incident and addressed the loss of the animal in its statement.
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“The Little Rock Police Department recognizes the emotional impact of this outcome and acknowledges the loss of the animal’s life,” the release stated.
The incident remains connected to a criminal case involving Schmidt. Court records show he faces charges of disorderly conduct, attempt to influence a public servant and terroristic threatening.
Schmidt has entered a not guilty plea to the charges. A trial date has been scheduled for Aug. 27.
The police department’s release was intended to provide a timeline of events and explain the circumstances that led to the officer’s decision to shoot the dog. The case involving Schmidt is still pending, and additional details may become available as court proceedings continue.
