Alert issued after Toronto police say small dog killed and owner injured by larger dog, man charged
Posted May 13, 2026 12:48 am.
Last Updated May 13, 2026 8:54 pm.
Toronto police officers say a man is facing multiple charges as the search continues for an off-leash dog that killed a smaller dog and injured its owner after an incident in the city’s west end Tuesday afternoon.
According to a public safety alert issued by the Toronto Police Service, 12 Division officers were called to the Weston Road and Lawrence Avenue West area at around 4:10 p.m. for an assault call involving a larger dog described as an abandoned, brown pit bull mix.
“The small dog was killed as a result of the attack, and the owner sustained non-life-threatening injuries,” the statement said.
“This attack was unprovoked.”
Officers released images captured by surveillance video as part of an attempt to find the dog, noting Toronto Animal Services is also involved in the investigation.
“We’re saddened by the death of a dog and the injuries to its owner near Weston Road and Lawrence Avenue West. Our thoughts are with them and their family,” Esther Attard, the director at Toronto Animal Services, said in a statement.
“We know this is concerning for the community. The City of Toronto is committed to keeping people and pets safe through education and enforcement.”
In an update released Wednesday afternoon, investigators said Toronto resident Mohamoud Abdiwa Ahmed was arrested earlier in the day. However, the dog wasn’t found at the time of the arrest.
He was charged with criminal negligence causing bodily harm, obstructing a peace officer, dog biting a person under the Dog Owners’ Liability Act, failure to prevent a dog from biting or attacking under the Dog Owners’ Liability Act, and obstructing, interrupting or interfering with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property.
Officers said the accused is set to appear in a Toronto bail court on Thursday. The charges haven’t been proven in court.
Meanwhile, investigators encouraged anyone who spots the dog involved to call 911 as soon as possible.
News Release – Public Safety Alert, Abandoned Off-Leash Dog Warning, Weston Road and Lawrence Avenue West areahttps://t.co/8ISxmgDhRu pic.twitter.com/IFkH8skBMd
— Toronto Police (@TorontoPolice) May 13, 2026
