A dog gave chase to a would-be burglar in Morris Township on Saturday and nearly took a bullet for defending its master, authorities said on Monday.
The suspect attempted to enter the rear of an occupied home on Frederick Place around 8:15 pm, according to a statement from Morris County Prosecutor Frederic Knapp.
“During this attempt, the resident’s dog chased after the suspect, at which time it is believed that the suspect fired the handgun in the direction of the dog,” the statement said.
Authorities said they believe the shot entered the home. Nobody was injured.
The resident has described the suspect to investigators as an athletically built black male in his late 20s or early 30s, standing between 5-foot-6 and 5-foot-8 inches tall. His hair is short on the sides, with one-inch twisted braids on top.
Authorities said the suspect wore a black hooded sweatshirt, dark colored pants, and a black backpack.
Police from Morris Township and Morristown are being assisted by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the major crimes unit of the Prosecutor’s Office.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Township police at 973-539-0777; Morris Township Detective Justin Crowell at 973-326-7484; the major crimes unit of the Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200, or the Morristown Police Department at 973-538-2200.
The public also may report information to the Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers Program at www.copcall.org, 973-COP-CALL, or by using the free “P3 Tips” app on any mobile device. The Prosecutor said callers will remain completely anonymous.
