LAS VEGAS (AP) - Police say an officer investigating in a backyard near downtown Las Vegas fatally shot a dog that charged him.

Authorities say 42-year-old Sgt. William Wilson was responding to a call on Earl Street about 2 p.m. Sunday when he heard a shot fired in the backyard and yelling or moaning immediately afterward.

Officials say Wilson went into the backyard to investigate the shot, and was approached by a pit bull.

The officer fired one shot that killed the animal.

Police say no people were found in the backyard, although a shell casing that didn't belong to the sergeant's gun was found.

Wilson remains on full duty as the shooting is investigated.

Owner Victor Patino tells the Las Vegas Review-Journal his dog, Bubba, was like family and was just protecting his property.

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