News: Amidst candles and cries for justice, the community of Oriente rejected the use of firearms against a sentient being during a procedure. Candlelight vigil demanding justice for the deceased animal. Photo: Courtesy.
JOURNALIST
May 12, 2026, 07:59
Updated: May 12, 2026, 07:59
The streets of Rionegro, Antioquia, were illuminated on the night of Monday, May 11th, by the outcry of the community, united in deep pain and indignation over a police procedure that day that resulted in the death of a dog. What began as a routine day of work in the town center turned into a tragedy that today has citizens demanding answers: the death of "Tigre," a loyal companion of a local recycler, who died after being shot by a police officer. The incident, which occurred on Carrera 48, was triggered during a raid to apprehend a homeless person, who allegedly was carrying a sharp weapon. "I loved what I saw today in Rionegro. People mobilized against the death of "Tigre," the little dog that was killed by a garbage police officer. The protest inconvenienced drivers, which is the point of a protest, not to block sidewalks or shade. Dismissal and jail for the police officer." - Mekato 🌺 (@Manjarblanko) May 12, 2026
According to witnesses and audiovisual recordings, the canine reacted defensively to protect its owner during the confrontation with the authorities. At a moment of high tension, and despite the pleas of passersby who asked that the animal not be harmed, one of the officers fired his weapon, immediately ending the life of the sentient being. Investigations: In light of the magnitude of the events and social pressure, the Municipal Ombudsman's Office of Rionegro, led by Jorge Luis Restrepo, announced the opening of a formal investigation. The regulatory body seeks to determine whether the use of force was necessary and proportionate, or whether, on the contrary, there was a serious failure in police protocols regarding domestic animals. Restrepo emphasized that the defense of human rights also includes respect for the life of sentient beings and due process. READ ALSO: For its part, the National Police confirmed the start of an internal disciplinary investigation to clarify the actions of the officer involved. While authorities collect testimonies and security camera footage, residents of Rionegro say they will not rest until a precedent is set regarding animal abuse in official procedures. The candlelight vigil was not only a mourning for a pet, but an urgent call for the humanization of the police force in the department. Follow all the information from Colombia on Facebook and Twitter, or in our weekly newsletter.
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