Police: Dog defecating in yard leads to shooting

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — An argument that started when a Mississippi man’s dog defecated in his neighbor’s yard escalated to a shootout, sending a man to the hospital and the dog owner to jail, authorities said Friday.

Terry Tenhet, 52, was mad at Jerry Blasingame because Blasingame’s dog went to the bathroom in his yard, Washington County Sheriff’s Assistant Chief Deputy Billy Barber said.

The argument Wednesday evening got out of control and the neighbors began shooting at one another, police said. Tenhet was hit in the chest, arm and hip with a shotgun blast. His injuries weren’t considered life threatening.

Blasingame, 60, was charged with aggravated assault. Tenhet could also face charges.

Blasingame didn’t respond to a phone message. His stepmother, Norma Blasingame, told The Associated Press he was defending himself after Tenhet threatened him with a gun. She declined to answer any other questions.

Barber said the shooting was senseless.

“Homeowners and property owners need to respect each other’s property. Don’t let your dogs do that on other people’s yards,” Barber said. “Then, at the same time, if a dog did do that in your yard, call the law. Don’t take make matters into your own hands.”

Barber didn’t know what kind of dog Blasingame has, and Tenhet’s number was unlisted.