*Update*

On June 9, 2026, at approximately 7:19 a.m., one of the pit bulls involved in the recent incidents was shot and killed after entering a resident's property and posing a threat to the safety of those on the property. Following an investigation, it was determined that the individual who discharged the firearm acted within their lawful rights. No charges will be filed.

Officers located the second dog, uninjured, at the owner's residence. Pennsylvania Dog Law Enforcement has been notified of the incident and the location of the remaining dog.

While at the residence, officers discovered a section of fencing that had been temporarily secured with a bungee cord, which may have contributed to the dog’s ability to escape the yard. The City Streets & Parks Department is responding to temporarily secure the fence pending further evaluation by Pennsylvania Dog Law Enforcement.

Additional charges against the dog's owner are pending as the investigation continues.

The Williamsport Bureau of Police remains in contact with Dog Law officials and will continue to assist with any ongoing investigation and enforcement action.

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The Williamsport Bureau of Police is aware of the ongoing concerns regarding two dogs that have repeatedly been reported running loose within the city. We understand the community's frustration, especially following reports of cats being injured or killed by these dogs.

Our officers have investigated these complaints and have cited the owner. While we can investigate incidents and issue citations, the Williamsport Bureau of Police cannot remove the dogs from the owner's residence. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement is the agency with the authority to take that action when appropriate.

We have been in contact with Dog Law officials regarding these incidents and are working with them toward a long-term solution. We share the community's concerns and frustration and will continue documenting incidents and taking enforcement action.

In situations involving repeated attacks on other animals, Pennsylvania law does provide a “dangerous dog” process. This is a legal proceeding that must be handled through the courts and cannot be done immediately or at the discretion of local police alone. More information on the dangerous dog provisions can be found here:
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/pda/animals/information-about-dogs/dog-owners/dangerous-dogs

Residents who have experienced incidents involving these dogs, or who have relevant information, are encouraged to contact Pennsylvania Dog Law Enforcement.

Pennsylvania Dog Law Enforcement - (717) 787-3062
Online Complaint Form: https://services.agriculture.pa.gov/DogLawComplaintFormSSL/

Reports made directly to Dog Law help ensure that the agency with the authority to pursue additional enforcement action is aware of the ongoing issues affecting our community.