TAMPA, Fla.—Police in Tampa say a burglary suspect threw a flaming accelerant on an officer and a police dog before he was shot by that officer.
Police say Officer Tim Bergman feared for his life when he opened fire on 40-year-old Joey Antonio Kennedy at a home Thursday.
Police were there responding to a report of burglary in progress when they encountered the suspect.
Police say police dog Indo “engaged” Kennedy who tossed a flaming accelerant on the dog and Bergman before being shot.
Kennedy, who’s known to police and wanted on outstanding warrants, was taken to a hospital in critical condition. Bergman wasn’t hurt, but K9 Indo was burned.
Bergman, a 12-year department veteran, was put on the standard paid leave while the shooting is investigated.
No word yet on charges.
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