Shooting of Pleasanton man motivated by 'unsubstantiated' reports of alleged dog abuse, police say

PLEASANTON, Calif. (KGO) -- A shooting in Pleasanton last weekend of a 71-year-old man was apparently motivated by reports of alleged dog abuse, police said.

Pleasanton Police Department said the dog did not appear to be injured when taken to an Alameda County animal shelter after the shooting. An investigation was conducted that included reviewing witness statements, video evidence and other supplementary material. After an exam -- including x-rays, ultrasounds and bloodwork - veterinarians did not find any signs of abuse.

Due to lack of evidence to justify holding onto the dog, it was given back to its owner -- the 71-year-old shooting victim.

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The victim was said to have been confronted by another man at the time of the shooting in connection with the animal abuse allegations. Police say it was unclear what happened during the initial confrontation, but at some point, the suspect shot the victim multiple times. The victim was said to have grabbed a shotgun but did not appear to have fired it.

The suspect was arrested and formally charged with attempted homicide.

Police say the shooting victim is currently recovering from nine gunshot wounds.