Suspect charged in shooting of Moss Point K-9 during pursuit

A suspect in Moss Point has been charged with multiple felonies from an incident this morning in which he fled from officers, then allegedly shot a K-9 in pursuit of him.

Moss Point Police said in a press release that K-9 officer Buddy was rushed to an emergency veterinarian clinic in Mobile, where he underwent surgery to remove the bullet from his chest. Police Chief Brandon Ashley confirmed that Buddy suffered multiple injuries including collapsed lungs. He is in stable condition.

Buddy was taken off oxygen this afternoon and has been able to eat a little.

Richard Jay McGwire has been charged with burglary of a commercial building, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and injury of killing of a public service animal. He is being held at the Jackson County jail with no bond pending an initial appearance.

Police responded to a call just after midnight Tuesday at the Shell Station on Highway 63 near I-10. Officers identified the suspect and began searching for him when they found him behind another business.

When they approached, the suspect fled and K-9 Buddy was released. The suspect scaled a fence and headed toward a wooded area with Buddy and officers pursuing him.

After the suspect and Buddy entered the woods, officers heard gunfire. Buddy returned to his handler and collapsed.

After Buddy was taken to the vet, officers continued the search for the suspect but could not find him, although they did recover property stolen in the burglary.

About 6 a.m., officers saw a suspicious vehicle and detained a male and female occupants and they are being questioned in relation to the burglary.