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A dog attacked a Troup County Marshal and was shot during a routine animal control dispatch on Wednesday morning, according to a press release from Troup County.

On Wednesday at approximately 8:50 a.m., Troup County Animal Control was dispatched to the area of Oakridge Drive in reference to a dog running at large. According to the press release, upon arrival, a deputy marshal made contact with a complainant, who stated that a white dog of unknown breed was running loose in the area and came from 2725 West Point Road.

As he proceeded to that location, a second area resident stopped him to confirm the identity of the white dog he was dispatched for by stating that the dog belongs to the residents located at 2725 West Point Road. Animal Control was also aware of this information due to a previous complaint about the same dog.

The Deputy Marshal then approached the residence and attempted to make contact with the residents, but the press release said there was no response at the door. As the deputy marshal returned to his vehicle, two other dogs appeared from the rear of the residence with “very aggressive posture.” The dogs began barking growling, and running toward him.

At this time, one of the dogs lunged at the deputy marshal in an attempt to bite him, according to the press release. He continued to back away toward his vehicle, but the dog then attempted to attack once again as the he tried to open the door of his vehicle for safety. Unable to evade the dog’s attack, the deputy marshal discharged his duty weapon, resulting in a gunshot wound to the dog ,who then ran away.

The deputy marshal was finally able to make contact with the owner and recover the dog, who was then taken to the veterinarian to receive medical attention. This case is still under investigation by the Troup County Marshal’s Office.