Bitsy, a two-year-old cow that became a social media sensation in Brooke County, West Virginia after it escaped from its pasture, was shot and killed by a sheriff's deputy Saturday who viewed it as a threat.
"I can rest assured that the public is a lot safer because of the decision I made," Brooke County Chief Deputy Scott Adams told WTOV 9.
But Bitsy's owner Mike Dillie said the cow was harmless and has escaped before to play with a neighbor's dog, only to return.
The cow was killed after being loose for several days where it had been spotted by locals at random locations, prompting conversations and photos on social media. But the cow never stood around long enough for its owner to retrieve it.
On Saturday, Bitsy's body was found with several bullet wounds to her face and neck. Dillie was told the cow was shot by deputies who confirmed they did when he called, according to WTRF.
"A cow on a roadway is very dangerous," said Adams. "We had to destroy the animal for the best interest of the public."
Adams also said they are contemplating charges against Dillie. They're just not sure of what yet.
