A man in Tulsa shot a pit bull several times, claiming self-defense after the dog allegedly charged at him in a parking lot. The incident has sparked debate over the appropriate use of force and concealed carry in self-defense situations.
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TULSA, OK (2-minute read) — Earlier this week, a tense encounter unfolded in Tulsa when a man discharged his firearm at a pit bull, claiming the dog aggressively charged him. The incident occurred near the corner of 31st Street and Sheridan Road and has sparked a community debate about self-defense, responsible pet ownership, and the use of firearms in public spaces.
Tyrone Cartas Burnett, a local barber and insurance worker, says he was on a break heading to a nearby store when a pit bull allegedly broke free and charged at him. According to Burnett, the dog growled before the owner lost control of it, prompting him to draw his legally carried firearm.
“They could’ve still had control of him,” Burnett said. “Moments later, the dog was let go and came at me.”
Burnett initially fired twice but says the dog kept coming, which led him to fire additional rounds. The animal was eventually hit in the paw. Despite the shots, Burnett stated he was deeply shaken—not just by the encounter, but by the reaction of bystanders who criticized him afterward. One individual even took off with Burnett’s phone during the chaotic scene.
Tulsa Police confirmed that the dog’s owner had the pit bull on a leash at a nearby bus stop. She claimed the dog became aggressive only after seeing Burnett brandishing his firearm, suggesting her pet reacted defensively.
Burnett, who suffered a dislocated toe while trying to evade the dog, told authorities he had never fired his firearm in public before and believed his life was in danger. He expressed concern for his three daughters, saying he couldn’t risk not returning home to them.
Legal Questions Surrounding Self-Defense and Concealed Carry
While Oklahoma law permits the use of deadly force in self-defense, the situation becomes murky when animals are involved. The key legal factor is whether the individual reasonably believed they were in imminent danger.
The Tulsa Police Department continues to investigate, and the case has been forwarded to the district attorney to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.
As of the latest update, the injured dog is recovering and scheduled for surgery. Both parties await the outcome of the legal review.
Safety Tip: If you carry a firearm for self-defense, always be aware of your surroundings and ensure your actions are justifiable under the law.
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