The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has released bodycam footage capturing the moments before an officer shot and killed a dog named Jameson during a New York Knicks championship celebration in Canoga Park. The incident, which occurred on June 13, 2026, has sparked outrage and raised questions about the use of force by police officers.
The footage, which includes the sound of the dog barking and officers shouting at the owner to restrain the animal, shows an officer firing multiple shots. The video was paused immediately after the first gunshot. The situation escalated when officers responded to reports of screaming from a residence on Jordan Avenue, only to find the owner, Marie, celebrating the Knicks’ win.
The Incident and Its Aftermath
The bodycam footage has drawn attention from activists and animal advocates, who gathered outside LAPD headquarters to respond to the incident. The family of Jameson, through their attorney Brett Greenfield, described the video as shocking and raised disturbing questions about the decision to use deadly force.
The footage appears to show Jameson, a golden retriever-poodle mix wearing a New York Knicks jersey, inside his own home. The family’s statement emphasizes that Jameson was not presenting an immediate threat and questions why the officer had his firearm drawn virtually from the beginning of the encounter. The video also shows repeated shots being fired at Jameson, including after he had already fallen to the ground.
The Neighbor’s Perspective
A neighbor who called 911 during what they believed was a welfare emergency has spoken out, expressing feelings of responsibility for the dog’s death. The neighbor, who asked not to be identified, said they were walking outside their condo building when they heard Marie screaming and tried to make contact. Past experiences with domestic violence influenced their decision to call the police.
The neighbor described the officers as hostile and banging on the door, which they did not expect during a welfare check. They heard the encounter unfold, with the officers ordering the dog to be put away and then firing five shots. The neighbor has since apologized publicly, stating they never wanted anything bad to happen and thought they were doing the right thing.
The LAPD’s Response and Public Reaction
The LAPD has stated that the dog rushed toward officers and attacked them, prompting the shooting. LA Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement following the release of the footage, expressing concern about why shots were fired and Jameson was killed. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell described the incident as incredibly tragic and vowed transparency in the investigation.
Support for the family has grown online, with a GoFundMe created in Jameson’s name raising nearly $200,000. Local activists have called for more details about the incident and immediate accountability. The family continues to call upon the LAPD to acknowledge that the use of deadly force against Jameson was unnecessary and to be fully transparent regarding the investigation.
