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1300+A search for a missing 90-year-old man in Apple Valley took a tense turn on Thursday afternoon, October 29, 2026. Four large dogs charged at a deputy and a Sheriff’s Department K-9, and a deputy fired shots, striking one of the dogs. The missing man was later found safe, and no deputies or K-9s were injured.
What Happened in Apple Valley
The Search on Ramona Avenue
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, deputies from the Apple Valley Station responded around 12:35 p.m. on October 29, 2026, to the 21000 block of Ramona Avenue. The call concerned a missing man in his 90s who has cognitive issues.
Deputies brought in a bloodhound trained in scent tracking to help locate him.
The Dog Encounter
As a deputy walked with the K-9, four large dogs, each estimated at about 100 pounds, charged from a nearby residence toward the deputy and the bloodhound. A deputy fired and struck one dog.
Deputies immediately requested help from Animal Control. They located the wounded dog, and an Animal Control officer took it to a local animal hospital for treatment.
How the Search Ended
Officials confirmed the missing man was found and is being reunited with his family. The sheriff’s department said it will share more information as it becomes available.
Missing person calls involving older adults with cognitive issues are urgent. Scent-tracking K-9 teams can help deputies cover ground quickly when time matters.
What California Law Says About Dog Owner Responsibility
Strict Liability for Dog Bites
California Civil Code section 3342 generally holds a dog owner responsible when their dog bites someone in a public place or while the person is lawfully on private property. This applies even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
Officials have not reported that anyone was bitten in this incident. They have also not shared further details about the dogs or their owners.
Why Containment Matters
Large dogs living near sidewalks, streets, and neighboring homes can pose real risks if they are not properly secured. Sturdy fencing, latched gates, and leashes help keep neighbors, visitors, and first responders safe.
Dog owners can face civil liability when a lack of reasonable control leads to someone getting hurt.
If a Dog Attack Injures You, Attorney Jeff Can Help
California generally allows two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit, so acting early matters. You can learn more about California dog bite claims.
Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer helps injured victims across the High Desert obtain the compensation they deserve following an accident. Our personal injury attorneys can review the case and explain your legal options.
Consultations are free, and you pay no attorney fees unless the firm recovers compensation for you. Call (760) 389-1803 or contact us online.
You can also keep up with local incidents on the Victorville accident news page or browse the Attorney Jeff blog.
About the Author
JEFFREY FAYNGOR, ESQ.
Jeffrey Fayngor is the founder of Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer and an experienced personal injury attorney dedicated to representing accident victims. He earned his J.D. from Whittier College School of Law and has recovered over $120 million for injured clients. He has built his practice around helping injury victims protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.