09/21/2026
Press release
Chief Mike Smith
Goldendale Police Department
September 12th 2026 Dangerous Dog Incident
On 09/12/26 at about 1238 hours the Goldendale Police Department (GPD) responded to the 400 block of East Court for a reported dog that had just attacked another dog.
After police arrived and investigated the situation, it was concluded that a German Shepard mix breed dog had attacked another dog unprovoked, causing clear injury to the second dog. GPD attempted to identify an owner or responsible party for the German Shepard but after talking with several people familiar with the dog, it was concluded the dog was a stray. GPD officers had attempted to approach the stray dog several days prior to this incident; however, the dog would not allow officers near it before fleeing.
Due to the stray dog meeting the definition of a “Potentially Dangerous Dog” (RCW:16.08.070), for the safety of the public, and a lack of available alternative options, the decision to terminate the stray dog was made.
After the dog was terminated, the dog was taken to a piece of property owned by the City of Goldendale that, for several decades has been used to store street rubble, slash piles, and other debris. This location has also historically been used to dispose of roadkill, deceased wildlife or other deceased animals when the need arose. Over the years walking trails located on Observatory Hill have encroached on this location.
After evaluation, the City of Goldendale recognizes it is no longer appropriate to dispose of animals at this location and has decided they will be instead placed, and buried, in a more appropriate, and secure location.
The Goldendale Police Department only ever uses the termination of animals as a last resort. However, regardless of how undesirable the circumstance GPD will take necessary action to preserve public safety.
-End Statement
