by SANTA ANA, Calif. – The fatal police shooting of a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois named Max has triggered widespread public outrage and calls for transparency and policy reform within the Santa Ana Police Department.
The incident occurred on July 30 during a police response to a domestic disturbance at the home of Luce Vega on Orange Avenue. According to Vega, Max exited through an open driveway gate, and officers shot him multiple times within seconds of arriving.
What Happened
“He just ran out, and they shot him. They didn’t wait or warn us. They didn’t let us intervene,” Vega said.
Santa Ana police claimed the officer acted in self-defense after being attacked by the dog, but Vega strongly disputes this, stating Max had never shown aggression and was simply excitable and curious.
Following the first round of gunfire, Max reportedly fled across the street, hid under a car, and later emerged when he heard Vega’s voice. Witnesses and Vega claim officers shot him again, though police deny a second round occurred.
Max was then allegedly beaten with batons while injured and carried away “like he wasn’t even alive,” Vega said.
“After he heard my voice, he came out and started running toward the corner,” she recalled. “That’s when they shot him again,” she added.
Delayed Response and Final Moments
Officers transported Max to Irvine Veterinary Hospital, but Vega said she was not told where he was taken and spent three hours calling emergency clinics before locating him. When she arrived, she was told Max had been brought in with gunshot wounds and was in critical condition, not stable as initially claimed.
“If he did survive, he was going to lose at least one leg — maybe both,” she said.
The family was not allowed to see Max until the following afternoon — nearly 14 hours later — at which point veterinary staff recommended euthanasia due to the severity of his injuries.
Calls for Justice
Vega and her supporters are demanding a formal investigation, body cam footage release, and departmental reforms.
“If there is justice for a dog who is a cop, why can’t there be justice for our dogs?” she asked.
Family friend Julie Capacete called the police response excessive and avoidable, stating Max was fleeing, not attacking, during the second alleged shooting.
The family has reached out to PETA, and the hashtag #JusticeForMax is gaining traction online as activists push for independent oversight.
As of now, Santa Ana police have not issued a follow-up statement or responded to additional inquiries as reported by KTLA.
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