A manhunt in Texas is underway for three suspects wanted in connection to the killing of a man trying to recover stolen dogs, according to local law enforcement.

The suspects are three light-complexion black men in their 20s last seen driving a black Chrysler 300 sedan on the northern side of Houston, Texas, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez posted on social media.


Gonzalez said multiple dogs were stolen from a kennel, and breeders and owners were contacted about returning the canines in exchange for an award. But a "disturbance" broke out during the meeting between the two parties on Tuesday and a friend of the dog owner was shot, Gonzalez added.

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"There was a little bit of shoving, and then the guns came out. The victim was shot right here at the gas station behind me," Lt. Robert Minchew with the HCSO Homicide Unit told FOX26.

The victim was shot in the leg and later died at the hospital, according to the local news outlet in Houston.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals shared safety tips to help keep animals safe, such as filing a police report if animals are missing, never leaving animals in cars unattended, having a current photo of the pet on hand, and keeping the chip in their collar updated. The group also encouraged owners to get to know other pet owners in the area.

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The sheriff's office is asking the public for help. Those with information on the suspects are encouraged to call 713-222-TIPS.