Last week, an anonymous tip brought officers from the Capital Area Humane Society to the Dumpster, behind Columbus Fire Station 27, where they found two bloody bags containing the dogs' bodies.

Firefighter David Santuomo, a 12-year veteran of the department, told his superiors that he shot the dogs because he thought they had consumed antifreeze.

In a letter written to Columbus fire Chief Ned Pettus, Santuomo claimed he thought the dogs drank a "toxic substance" and was afraid they were "suffering."  Santuomo added that he shot them to "save them" from their misery.

Investigators were looking into claims that Santuomo bragged to other firefighters about killing the dogs because he was going on vacation, Kocot reported.

Investigators said that a recent search of Santuomo's home turned up a .22-caliber rifle and antifreeze, but humane society officers have asked prosecutors to review the evidence after a green, two-liter bottle was allegedly found taped to the end of the rifle, Kocot reported.

Using a device to muffle or silence a gun blast could result in felony charges, Kocot reported.

Investigators were waiting for toxicology reports to show whether or not the firefighter's dogs consumed antifreeze.

According to records reviewed by 10TV, in 12 years of service, Santuomo has been disciplined once for "rude of verbally abusive" behavior.  In 2002, he completed voluntary anger management training, Kocot reported.

Humane society agents said it could take weeks to complete the investigation.

Attempts by 10TV to reach Santuomo have been unsuccessful.

No charges have been filed.
 
Watch 10TV News and refresh 10TV.com for additional information.

Previous Story:

December 10, 2008: Firefighter Allegedly Shoots, Kills Dogs

©2008 by 10TV.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.