Mystery Shot Rocks Nanaimo Trail: Beloved Dog Buddy Fighting for Life After Horrific Attack

NANAIMO, B.C. – A serene afternoon stroll along one of Nanaimo's beloved trails took a shocking and horrific turn this past Saturday, leaving a family devastated and their beloved dog fighting for his life. Nanaimo RCMP have launched an urgent investigation after a family pet named Buddy was mercilessly shot on the South Parkway Trail.

The harrowing incident unfolded around 2:30 p.m.

on Saturday, March 9th. Buddy's owner was enjoying a peaceful walk with their off-leash companion when suddenly, a single "pop" shattered the quiet. Moments later, Buddy yelped in pain and collapsed, sending waves of terror through his owner. Initially, the owner suspected an animal attack, a common fear in natural settings.

However, the true, horrifying nature of Buddy’s injury was only revealed hours later.

Upon rushing Buddy to a veterinarian, the devastating truth emerged: the beloved dog had suffered a gunshot wound. What was first thought to be an animal skirmish was, in fact, an act of shocking cruelty, leaving both Buddy and his human family traumatized.

Buddy underwent immediate and extensive surgery, battling for survival against severe injuries.

While he has pulled through the critical phase, his recovery journey is expected to be long and arduous, marked by physical pain and emotional scars for his family.

Constable Mike Wilson, media relations officer for the Nanaimo RCMP, confirmed the active investigation, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

"This is a deeply disturbing incident," Wilson stated, "not only for the blatant cruelty inflicted upon an innocent animal but also for the potential danger this poses to public safety. A popular walking trail is no place for firearms, and the presence of someone discharging a weapon in such an area is extremely concerning."

Police are appealing directly to the public for any information that could lead to the apprehension of the individual or individuals responsible for this heinous act.

Investigators are particularly keen to speak with anyone who was on the South Parkway Trail near the Nanaimo River between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. They are urging potential witnesses to come forward, no matter how insignificant their observation might seem.

Furthermore, RCMP are requesting residents and businesses in the vicinity to review any surveillance or dashcam footage from the specified time frame.

Even a fleeting glimpse of a suspicious vehicle or individual could provide the crucial breakthrough needed in this case.

The community is reeling from this incident, uniting in their call for justice for Buddy and demanding accountability for such a reckless and inhumane act. The shooting has cast a shadow of fear over local trails, raising urgent questions about safety for both pets and people.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345.

Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).