Tulsa man says he shot dog in self-defense, claims dog was aggressive

Earlier this week, we brought you a troubling story about a dog in Tulsa who is recovering after being shot by a man claiming self-defense. Both the dog's owner and the shooter allege they were acting to protect themselves.

Related: Dog shot by man near 31st & Sheridan bus stop; Tulsa group helps with recovery

Tyrone's Side of the Story

Tyrone Cartas Burnett, who works nearby, was on his way to a store at the corner of 31st and Sheridan when he says a dog charged at him unprovoked.

Tyrone, a barber, musician, and insurance worker, often takes breaks to chat with locals or grab a snack. However, Monday afternoon turned into a nightmare when a dog attacked him.

Tyrone recounts the moment he felt threatened:

"As I'm walking through the parking lot, these people that are sitting there and their dog starts growling up. They still could, you know, had control of him. And then moments after that, they let him go."

Despite initially shooting at the dog twice, it continued to charge at him, prompting him to fire more rounds.

An Unfamiliar Situation

He explains the escalation:

"He tried to get the dog, and the dog was still acting vicious, still coming at me. And so I shot about two or three more rounds, striking it in his paw."

The Owner's Account

Tulsa police say the dog's owner was at a nearby bus stop with her pit bull on a leash when the dog broke free. She claims the dog reacted aggressively after seeing Burnett wave his gun around.

A Shocking Experience

Burnett was shocked to find himself using a weapon for the first time in self-defense. Following the shooting, he faced backlash from a man and a woman who yelled at him, with the man even taking off with Burnett's phone.

"I was scared for my life, because, you know, this is not your normal dog. This is a pit bull that looked like it's been trained to act viciously."

The Aftermath

The incident left Burnett shaken and adversely affected his business as he has been without a phone. He expressed concern for his family's safety:

"I got three daughters. I couldn't imagine letting that dog get me. I had to look answer to at the end of the day."

Ongoing Investigation

Burnett also dislocated his toe during the confrontation. Tulsa police are continuing their investigation, and the district attorney will determine if any criminal charges will be filed.

Update on the Dog

At last check, the dog was preparing for surgery at a local vet, as both sides await further developments in this case.