Police in Auburn, Massachusetts, are looking for two suspects who broke into a home, assaulted the homeowner and his wife and stole two of their puppies.
The incident happened Tuesday night around 9:30 at 8 Wittier St.
Police say two masked men hid in the woods across the street, then pistol-whipped the male homeowner when he came outside.
They took his keys, according to police, and then entered the home, where they assaulted a woman and nearly killed a Pomeranian dog, finally stealing two rare "American Bully" puppies, which are a natural extension of the American Pit Bull Terrier.
Auburn's police chief says he thinks the home was targeted and the expensive puppies were collateral damage.
"We believe they may have gone there for another reason that I can't elaborate on, and as a result of that altercation, they stole the dogs," Police Chief Andrew Sluckis said.
The chief adds there is now an investigation into whether or not the couple was operating as illegal breeders, since the puppies were being sold for $2,500. Large dog cages could be seen in the backyard, and neighbors say they've seen and heard the dogs.
If you have any information on this case, you’re asked to contact police at 508-832-7738.
