KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Editor's Note: The Knoxville Fire Department originally reported there were 33 dogs found inside the home. They have since verified that 13 dogs lived in the house.
One person was arrested after shooting a dog while Knoxville Fire Department crews were fighting a house fire, KFD said.
Around 3:20 a.m., firefighters responded to the house fire on Stone Road in South Knoxville. KFD said 11 people and 13 dogs were staying at the house.
When crews arrived, occupants were still inside trying to get the dogs out of the house. As firefighters began fighting the flames, they heard a gunshot, KFD said. A spokesperson with KFD said around 11 people responded.
A dog started attacking other dogs and the owner shot it. The Knoxville Police Department was already on the scene and took 43-year-old Gregory Leroy into custody since it was determined the gun was stolen. He was charged with reckless endangerment and theft of a firearm, according to KPD.
The house suffered significant fire, smoke and water damage. All occupants and "most" dogs escaped from the home, KFD said. Animal control was dispatched to transport the animals.
A neighbor who lives near the house said it has been troublesome over the past couple of years.
“Usually around 3 a.m., the sirens started happening,” he said. “We have had problems with that house quite often.”
This story is ongoing and we will update you as we learn more.