Suspect Shoots Man Who He Accuses Of Stealing His Dog: Sheriff

LAKELAND, FL — A 22-year-old Lakeland man faces an attempted first degree murder charge after police said he shot a male victim Wednesday in Lakeland who he accused of stealing his dog.

Pierre Drahorad, of Lakeland, drove an orange Dodge Challenger to an undisclosed Polk County location during the evening hours, and shot a Glock 26 that hit a man in the face, the Polk County Sheriff's Office said. A family member of the victim's drove away to seek safety after he was shot. Three other family members were also in the car with her, according to authorities.

The female driver told deputies that the suspect tried to run her off the road as he pointed the gun at her. Deputies met the victim and her family members at a location after she was able to safely get away from Drahorad in his Challenger. Shortly after deputies met with the victim, they saw a car that matched the description of the suspect's and pulled him over. Investigators said he told them he owned a Glock 26 with a laser site but said he didn't shoot anyone or chase the other victims with his car. He said the gun was at a friend's house, detectives said.

Officers found the gun at his friend's house later that evening. Drahorad told officers he pointed the laser from the gun at the male victim as he stood in his own driveway because he thought the victim stole his dog. He said he didn't point the gun or shoot it, according to deputies.

The male victim who was shot experienced non-life-threatening injuries, authorities said.

Pierre Drahorad was arrested on the following charges, according to the Polk County Sheriff's Office:

• Attempted first degree murder
• Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
• Aggravated assault on a person over 65 years of age
• Discharging a firearm from a vehicle
• Improper use or display of a firearm
• Tampering with evidence
• Reckless driving

"This was an extremely dangerous situation that very well could have resulted in several deaths," Sheriff Grady Judd said. "Clearly this suspect has anger issues, and should not have access to firearms. We're glad the victims were able to get away from him and that our deputies were able to apprehend him so swiftly."