Taunton Dog Stabbed By Man With Machete: Police

TAUNTON, MA — Taunton police are asking the public's help finding a suspect accused of attacking a woman and a dog with a machete last week. Thomas Vargas, 45, has a last known address in the Brockton area, police said. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 508-824-7522.

Police said the attack happened Monday, September 18 on Church Street. (Sign up for free daily newsletters and breaking news alerts from Massachusetts Patch sites.)

"Witnesses reported a male subject attacking a woman and her dog," Taunton police said in a statement. "The suspect was described as a male party dressed in black with tattoos on his neck. When officers arrived the witnesses stated that the male party was screaming 'I’m going to kill this ****ing dog.' During the attack on the dog the owner was injured as well. The female victim sustained many wounds from the attack."

Police said the victim has not cooperated with the investigation. Police said they believe Vargas is currently in the Brockton area "deliberately avoiding apprehension." Vargas is facing charges of animal cruelty and assault.

Photo: Thomas Vargas. (Credit: Taunton Police Department)