Neighbors and family members are seeking answers after a police welfare check ended with a beloved pet’s death.
CANOGA PARK, Calif. — A family celebration of the New York Knicks’ NBA championship turned into a tragedy Saturday night when Los Angeles police officers responding to a welfare check shot and killed a dog inside a condominium complex, according to police and witnesses.
The incident occurred shortly after 8 p.m. at a condo building on Jordan Avenue. Police said officers were dispatched after reports of a woman screaming inside the complex. During the response, officers encountered Jameson, a 2-year-old mixed-breed dog, and fatally shot him after the animal allegedly charged toward them.
Family members say the circumstances were far different from what neighbors may have assumed. According to relatives, the woman who was heard screaming was celebrating the Knicks’ championship victory with loved ones. A photo taken before the incident reportedly showed Jameson wearing a Knicks-themed shirt as the family marked the team’s historic win.
Cellphone video recorded after the shooting captured the emotional scene. The dog’s owner could be heard crying and repeatedly expressing disbelief over what had happened. Witnesses described a chaotic and heartbreaking aftermath as neighbors gathered in the hallway.
Raymon Alvarez, who lives nearby, said he first heard loud screams while leaving for a walk. When he returned, he heard gunshots and later learned that police had shot the family’s dog. Alvarez said the neighborhood is generally quiet and that the incident stunned residents.
The dog’s owner and her family insist Jameson was energetic but not aggressive. Relatives described him as a friendly family pet who lived in the condominium complex and was well known among neighbors.
The neighbor who contacted authorities reportedly said they believed the screaming indicated someone might be in danger. After learning the outcome, the caller expressed regret and said the intention had been to ensure the woman’s safety.
A small memorial has since appeared near the location where Jameson was killed. Flowers, notes and other tributes have been left by residents mourning the loss of the dog.
Police officials said the shooting is under review, a standard procedure following officer-involved shootings. Authorities have not released additional details about the officers involved or whether body-camera footage will be made public.
Author note: Last updated June 15, 2026.