JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Officials with Jacksonville Animal Care and Protective Services are asking for the public’s help after a dog was found critically injured along a roadside last week and later died from what veterinarians determined were multiple stab wounds.
The dog was discovered around 5:30 p.m. June 26 near the intersection of Blanding Boulevard and Argyle Forest Boulevard, according to Jacksonville Animal Care and Protective Services.
The large blue-and-white, unneutered male dog was wearing a metal chain collar but had no microchip or identification tags. He had been wrapped in a shower curtain and was suffering from severe injuries when he was brought to ACPS.
An animal control officer investigating the case named the dog “Manatee.”
After being stabilized by ACPS medical staff, the dog was transported to an emergency veterinary hospital, where veterinarians found he had sustained multiple stab wounds, blunt force trauma to his chest and paralysis in his hind legs
According to ACPS, vets determined the wounds were consistent with the dog having been repeatedly stabbed. The injuries penetrated internal organs and damaged his spinal column.
Despite emergency treatment, the dog’s injuries were too severe, and he was humanely euthanized.
Animal control officers are now asking anyone who recognizes the dog or has information about how he was injured to come forward.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-846-TIPS (8477). Information can also be reported through MyJax by calling 630-CITY (2489) or directly to Jacksonville Animal Care and Protective Services.
Authorities have not announced any suspects or arrests as the investigation remains ongoing.
This is a developing story. HomeFetch is seeking additional information from ACPS and will update this story as the investigation develops.
I’m curious if ACPS connected with JSO to try to process the shower curtain for potential fingerprints? I would tend to think anyone capable of such a heinous act probably would have previous criminal activities and could have prints on file.
That’s a fantastic question. As of current reporting, I don’t believe JSO is even involved in the investigation, but I haven’t been able to connect yet with JSO/ACPS to confirm if/how they’re a part of the case. But you bring up a great point.