A disturbing yet bizarre incident has gone viral online after a video titled “Suspect Throws Small Dog at Police Officer While Attempting Escape” was released earlier this week. The video, which has now amassed millions of views across various social media platforms, has left viewers shocked not only by the suspect’s actions but also by the surprising and almost surreal conclusion to the chase.

The Incident

The footage, captured by a bodycam worn by one of the responding officers, shows a tense moment during what initially appears to be a routine foot pursuit. Officers were responding to reports of a suspicious individual trespassing near a residential neighborhood in Riverside County, California. According to the police report, the suspect, later identified as 32-year-old Brandon Tate, fled on foot upon being approached by law enforcement.

As officers chased Tate through backyards and across streets, he was seen clutching a small dog—later identified as a 6-pound Chihuahua mix named “Peanut”—in his left arm. Eyewitnesses described the scene as “chaotic,” with some calling it “absolutely surreal” to see someone running at full speed with a tiny dog in tow.

It was during the final moments of the chase, when officers were closing in on the suspect near a fence line, that Tate allegedly hurled the small dog directly at one of the officers in an apparent attempt to distract or deter capture.

The Moment Captured on Camera

The video shows the officer momentarily stunned as the dog flies through the air toward him. Astonishingly, the officer managed to catch the dog mid-air, cradling it safely in his arms. Viewers have since praised the officer’s reflexes, describing the catch as both heroic and cinematic. One TikTok user commented, “This officer just went full NFL wide receiver with that catch. Absolute legend.”

The suspect, momentarily thinking his bizarre distraction had worked, attempted to vault a fence just ahead—but failed. He tripped and fell awkwardly into a garden hose and a trash can, which ultimately slowed him down enough for the backup officers to apprehend him without further incident.

The Unexpected Ending

What has captivated audiences even more than the dramatic throw or the miraculous dog catch is what happened afterward. In a heartwarming twist, the small dog, Peanut, appeared completely uninjured and, to the surprise of everyone, seemed to instantly bond with the officer who caught him.

Police later reported that Peanut had no identification tag or microchip and that the suspect was not the animal’s legal owner. During the subsequent investigation, it was revealed that Peanut had been reported missing by a local family over a week earlier.

Thanks to the attention brought by the video, the rightful owners were able to come forward and confirm the dog’s identity. In an emotional reunion caught on camera, Peanut was returned to the Martinez family, who thanked the police department and the officer who ensured his safety.

“Peanut is like a member of our family,” said Maria Martinez, wiping away tears. “We were starting to lose hope. Seeing him safe in that video—being caught like that, like he was meant to be saved—it’s just incredible.”

Public Reaction and Legal Consequences

While the internet has reacted with a mix of shock, laughter, and admiration for the officer’s reflexes, the legal consequences for Brandon Tate are far from amusing. He is facing multiple charges, including resisting arrest, animal cruelty, and possession of stolen property (as he was not the rightful owner of Peanut).

Animal rights organizations have also expressed outrage at the incident. The ASPCA released a statement condemning the use of an animal in a criminal act and is calling for stricter penalties in cases where pets are harmed or endangered during police encounters.

Meanwhile, the Riverside Police Department praised the officers involved, especially Officer Kevin Ruiz, who caught the dog. “Officer Ruiz’s actions demonstrate not only his commitment to public safety but also his compassion,” said Police Chief Laura Bennett. “His quick thinking ensured that a vulnerable animal wasn’t harmed during an already dangerous situation.”

A Story That Resonates