What started as a frustrated chicken owner tracking down a neighbor’s dog turned into a dangerous confrontation on Summit Street—and a reminder that sometimes it’s best to call police instead of taking matters into your own hands.
According to Portsmouth Police, an upset resident reported that a black-and-white dog broke into his chicken coop and killed all of his birds. Instead of calling officers right away, he followed the dog back to its owner’s home on Summit to confront them directly.
That decision quickly escalated. The caller phoned police again to report that the property owner pulled a gun and threatened to shoot him if he didn’t leave. Dispatchers also received two additional calls from concerned neighbors about the argument.
Police officers and animal control both responded to the scene, and information was taken for a report.
Police Advice: Don’t Take Risks Yourself
While it’s understandable to be upset over property damage or the loss of livestock, police stress that residents should avoid tracking suspects—or animals—on their own. These kinds of situations can spiral quickly, putting lives in danger.
The safer approach: call authorities immediately, provide detailed information, and let trained officers handle it.
