French bulldog dead following dog fight; Pit bull shot after charging at officers

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Two Philadelphia police officers opened fire on several dogs inside a home after responding to a call for animals fighting on Wednesday night in the city's Port Richmond section.

It happened just after 9:30 p.m. on the 3600 block of Sepviva Street.

When police arrived at the home, officers learned that several pit bulls had attacked a French bulldog in the yard.

The owner of the French bulldog, a 37-year-old man, attempted to intervene and was bitten multiple times on the right leg and lower back, police said.

He was taken to Temple Hospital in stable condition. The French bulldog died from its injuries.

Officers entered the home and found five pit bulls barking and growling. When the dogs advanced, one officer deployed an Electronic Control Weapon (ECW) without effect.

Two officers then drew their firearms and shot several times, striking one dog in the paw, police said. All five dogs were able to be contained inside the home by the owner.

Police body cameras were activated during the incident and will be reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

No officers were injured in the incident.