Concealed Carrier Shoots Dog Who Ran Out Of Home And Started Attacking

A dog attack in Delaware County led to a concealed carry holder shooting the aggressive dog. The situation escalated when one of the dog’s owners made racial threats and the other struck the victim’s dog. Both brothers are now facing multiple charges.

NORWOOD, PA (2-minute read) — A dog attack on East Amosland Road in Norwood, Pennsylvania, took a violent turn Thursday evening when the incident escalated into a shooting and resulted in multiple charges against two brothers. The altercation began when a man, lawfully carrying a concealed firearm, was walking his dog shortly after 6:30 PM. Without warning, another dog burst out of a nearby home and attacked the man’s dog.

In an act of self-defense and to protect his pet, the dog walker drew his concealed firearm and shot the attacking dog. Norwood Police Chief Mark Del Vecchio confirmed that the wounded dog was taken to a veterinarian and is expected to recover, though details about the injury and who transported the dog were not disclosed.

The situation intensified when Shawn Gallagher, 42, emerged from the house, enraged by the shooting. He directed a racial slur at the dog walker, who is Black, and threatened his life, shouting, “I’m going to kill you,” according to police reports. Shawn Gallagher then fled the scene. Authorities have issued a warrant for his arrest, charging him with ethnic intimidation, harassment, making terroristic threats, and disorderly conduct.

Meanwhile, Christopher Gallagher, 39, of Prospect Park, also exited the home and, in a shocking display of aggression, grabbed a stick and struck the victim’s dog while police officers were there. Christopher was immediately arrested and charged with cruelty to animals, possession of an instrument of crime, and disorderly conduct.

Christopher Gallagher was arraigned before District Judge Michael Burns, who set his bail at 10% of $35,000. He posted bail and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on August 21.

His brother, Shawn Gallagher, remains at large as law enforcement continues to search for him.

Safety Tip: Always ensure your dog is securely leashed and under control when in public spaces to avoid potential confrontations.