An evening dog walking session ended in a tragedy for a 44-year-old Atlanta man who got fatally shot and his dog stolen by a group of individuals. Authorities are now appealing to the public to come forward with any information that might lead to the killers’ arrest.
Man robbed, then shot, before dog was stolen
Atlanta Police Department said that on Monday, Feb. 5, Samuel “JR” Harris was walking his dog around 8 p.m. Suddenly, a group of individuals approached and robbed him before shooting and killing him.
The group then stole the victim’s Pitbull, named Tequilla, who is still missing as of today.
According to Fox News, authorities believe Harris’ attack was targeted. His family received news of his killing the following morning from an officer who stopped by their home.
“I couldn’t believe it,” a devastated Mary Boykins, Harris’ mother, shared. “I think I’m still in shock a little bit, like I’m going to wake up, and it’s a dream,” she added.
Harris’ family returned to the crime scene and distributed fliers across the neighborhood. They requested anyone who may have witnessed Harris’ deadly shooting to help them with the crucial information.
They have two priorities right now: to find out who killed Harris and to locate his stolen pup.
Harris’ sister, Liz Robinson, told the news outlet that they would truly appreciate having Tequilla back.
“It would be so grateful even if you just dropped her off in a cage in front of the police station. We would be so grateful to have a piece of him still with us,” a distraught Robinson stated.
After Crime Stoppers Atlanta announced a $2,000 reward money for anyone with information that will help catch the perpetrators of the heinous crime, Harris’ family topped up the reward with an additional $5,000.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
