‘Look out, MLGW’: Owner speaks after utility investigator shoots, kills family dog

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - A Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) employee shot and killed a family’s dog Thursday morning at a home near Arlington, according to the utility.

Bryan McGarah’s four-year-old dog, Snow, was shot by an MLGW worker who is part of the utility’s Revenue Protection Team, a specialized squad that investigates power theft.

MLGW confirmed the worker was armed because of his role on that team.

”They show up in full black tactical gear," McGarah said, “bulletproof vests. They looked like the FBI walking up in there. Kinda throws you off.”

What surveillance video shows

Surveillance video shows two MLGW workers approaching the front door of McGarah’s home.

A utility spokesperson told Action News 5, “Our employees identified themselves and the reason for their presence on the property.”

When McGarah’s girlfriend opened the door to talk with the men, Snow ran outside. Within seconds, the sound of a gun firing could be heard, followed by screaming and shouting.

MLGW said in a statement, “Unfortunately, while the door was open, a dog rushed out and charged at an MLGW employee who was forced to defend himself.”

McGarah disputed that account.

“She’s not running out to kill anybody or anything. She just runs out, licks you to death and whatnot, but she didn’t get that chance,” McGarah told Action News 5. “One of the MLGW officers pulled his gun and shot her in half a second, you know, that quick.”

Surveillance video also shows the other MLGW employee bending over behind a car following the shooting, clearly shaken up by the incident.

Utility’s response

MLGW told Action News 5: “Please remind your viewers that our officers are authorized to enter private property to inspect MLGW equipment. For everyone’s safety, pets should be restrained during inspection.”

Snow is the second dog the MLGW Revenue Protection Team has killed in three months. Memphis police say the other incident happened in July in the Grahamwood neighborhood.

McGarah is considering legal action against the utility.

“It’s tough. She’s still lying in the yard right there. I’m trying to bury her now. I hadn’t cried in years, but I cried this morning. So, look out, MLGW. I’m coming,” McGarah said.

McGarah said he must pay MLGW $500 for the utility theft inspection, but denies stealing power from MLGW.

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is investigating Snow’s shooting.

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