Manassas Man Accused Of Shooting, Killing Family Dog: Police

MANASSAS, VA — A Manassas man faces several charges after police said he shot and killed his family's dog on Tuesday. The police department claimed the man shot the pit bull in his home while he was under the influence of medication and alcohol.

Authorities said the dog was found dead at the home on Tuesday.

The man, who police identified as Daniel Charles Taylor, was hospitalized on Tuesday evening after he suffered a medical emergency at the SplashDown Water Park. Police said he was still hospitalized on Wednesday.

Taylor is charged with felony animal cruelty, shooting into an occupied dwelling, and reckless handling of a firearm.

Taylor has not been jailed, as he remains hospitalized. The Prince William County Police Department said officers obtained warrants for his arrest. His court date is pending.

If convicted of all three charges, Taylor could face up to 16 years in prison, based on Virginia's sentencing guidelines.

Police were originally called to Gateshead Lane in Manassas on Tuesday for a report of a missing person. The missing man, who police identified as Taylor, was found at the hospital.

While investigating, officers determined that Taylor was under the influence of alcohol and medication around 2 p.m. on Tuesday. Authorities believe that Taylor fired multiple gunshots inside his home.

The gunshots hit the family's pit bull and a neighboring townhouse. Animal control collected the dog, which died at the scene. Police did not receive any reports of gunfire at the time, according to the department's report.

Authorities said rescue personnel took Taylor to a hospital around 6 p.m. after he suffered a medical emergency at nearby SplashDown Water Park.