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Cibolo Police Officer Shoots Dog Attacking Officer After Earlier Mauling of Elderly Woman


A Cibolo Police officer shot and killed a dog on Monday morning, June 16, 2025, after the animal, which had already severely bitten an elderly woman, broke free from its owner and attacked the officer. The officer sustained bites but has since been released from the hospital, while the elderly victim's condition remains serious.

At approximately 8:07 AM, emergency services, including the Cibolo Police Department, Cibolo Animal Services, Cibolo Fire Department, and Schertz EMS, responded to two 911 calls regarding a dog attack in the 100 block of Sambar Main. Callers reported a loose dog attacking and biting an elderly female, with the dog's owner attempting to restrain it.

Upon arrival, Officers Starr and Pillar found the dog owner on the street, restraining the dog, which was initially calm. Blood on the street was identified by a witness as belonging to the elderly female victim, who had been moved to a nearby residence by neighbors.

To allow EMS safe access to the injured woman, Officers Starr and Pillar attempted to place a catch pole loop around the dog. During this attempt, the dog became aggressive, broke free from the owner's restraint, and charged Officer Starr. The dog leapt towards Officer Starr’s face and upper body, knocking him to the ground, and then bit him on the upper thigh of his right leg, refusing to disengage. As the dog attacked Officer Starr, Officer Pillar discharged his firearm multiple times, striking and killing the dog at the scene.

The Cibolo Fire Department and Schertz EMS immediately treated both victims. Medics found a 67-year-old female resident with dog bites to her upper arm, shoulder, and hip, described as serious but not life-threatening. Both victims were transported to area hospitals. Officer Starr was treated at Northeast Methodist Hospital in Live Oak and released. The elderly female victim was transported to University Hospital; her current condition is unknown.

Cibolo Police Chief Thedrick Andres stated, “This is a difficult situation for everyone involved. The dog was in front of their residence and not restrained by the owner, which is a violation of our city ordinance. The dog attacked a neighbor, causing significant injuries, and then attacked a Cibolo Police Officer. Fortunately, a second Cibolo Police Officer at the scene was able to act quickly to save the life of another police officer. None of our officers ever wants to be placed in these types of situations, but our priority will always be the safety of our officers and community.”

The Cibolo Police Department Criminal Investigations Division is investigating the use of force and the officer-involved shooting. Per department policy, Officer Pillar has been placed on paid administrative leave. Cibolo Animal Services will investigate the aggressive animal running at large and both dog bites.