Crime & Safety
Driver Who Hit Dog Before Sterling Shooting Won't Face Charges: Police
Authorities have identified the driver who hit a dog with his vehicle before a shooting in Sterling last week. He will not face charges.
STERLING, VA — The driver who hit a dog with his vehicle in Sterling last week has come forward, the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office said. The owner of the dog shot at the driver following the crash, according to authorities.
The driver will not face criminal charges, the sheriff's office said in a report.
The dog received treatment at a local veterinarian's office and will be okay, police officials told Patch.
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Authorities identified the dog's owner as 43-year-old Steven Drew. He was arrested after the shooting and charged with one count of shooting into an occupied vehicle.
Drew is being held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.
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If convicted, Drew could face up to 10 years in prison, based on Virginia's sentencing guidelines.
The shooting occurred around 7:15 p.m. on Jan. 10 in the 1000 block of Albemarle Road. Investigators said the dog ran into the roadway and a white vehicle hit it. The dog was not on a leash.
The driver didn't stop and continued driving southbound, authorities noted.
The dog's owner, who investigators identified as Drew, fired several gunshots at the passing vehicle.
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