Massachusetts Dog Parent Devastated After Husky Killed by Officer

A heartbreaking incident in Northbridge, Massachusetts, left a dog parent reeling after his 10-month-old husky, Odin, was fatally shot by an animal control officer who mistook the pet for a coyote. On the morning of November 19, the Northbridge Police Department received a call about a suspected coyote in a resident’s backyard. Police Chief Tim Labrie explained that an animal control officer responded and ventured into the woods to investigate. While searching, the officer heard a scream from the caller, spotted what he believed to be a coyote, and fired, killing the animal.

It wasn’t until afterward that the officer realized the animal was wearing a flea collar, identifying it as a pet. Labrie described the incident as “an honest mistake,” noting the officer’s extensive experience in handling wildlife during his 21 years on the job.

Odin’s human, Kirk Rumford, expressed disbelief at the situation, stating that his husky bore little resemblance to a coyote. He “would have been the most gorgeous coyote ever, on steroids,” Rumford said.

Rumford recounted how Odin often roamed the neighborhood but never caused trouble. On the morning of the tragedy, Rumford had gone to buy treats to lure Odin back home, only to later discover through his security camera that police were on his property. He was devastated to learn from Labrie that his dog had been killed.

The police department has since offered to assist Rumford, including covering the cost of cremation. Labrie urged dog owners to follow leash laws and ensure their pets have clear identifying markers, particularly if they tend to wander into wooded areas.

Despite assurances from the police, Rumford is still grappling with the loss of his companion. “He was my reason to come home every day,” he shared.

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