A police force is investigating after one of its officers fired shots at a loose dog while responding to a call, killing a woman in the process.
The police department says officers were dispatched to a welfare check after a woman was reported to have passed out at 5.17pm local time in Texas on Thursday.
As an officer began to approach the woman lying in the grass, he noticed there was also an unrestrained dog.
Investigators say when the officer called out to the woman repeatedly concerning her well-being, the dog began to run towards him barking.
Police say the officer retreated backwards from the running dog and pulled out his gun, firing at it multiple times.
Investigators say the woman yelled out and it became apparent she was injured.
She was taken to hospital where she was later pronounced dead.
Investigators say preliminary information suggests the woman was shot.
It’s not clear if any action has been taken against the officer or if any charges have been filed.
The incident was captured by a body-worn camera, which the police department says will be used in the investigation.
The woman’s name has not been released.
