A 22–year–old man is in custody after allegedly shooting a dog in the Kennebecasis Valley on Saturday.

A bystander called police after they witnessed a car "screeching to a halt," then crashing into a snowbank in front of the Dolan Road Irving, according to Sgt. Peter Breen of the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force.

The dog had wounds to its neck, but otherwise seemed to be "in good shape" according to Sgt. Peter Breen of the Kennebecaisis Regional Police. (Submitted by the Kennebecasis Regional Police) The man was then seen going into the woods off Highway 1, where he was walking a pitbull mix.

When he emerged from the woods, the dog was no longer with him, witnesses told police. The man then left in a cab.

Police searched the crashed car and found a BB gun and a small quantity of drugs.

When officers tracked down the cab, the man was found to be carrying a concealed handgun.

'He had a bullet in him'

X-rays revealed the dog "had a bullet in him," according to Sergeant Peter Breen - the dog has received medical care and remains with the SPCA. (Submitted by the Kennebecasis Regional Police)

Police searched the area for the dog for about three or four hours on Saturday night without success, said Sgt. Breen.

At 6 a.m. Sunday, the dog was spotted wandering near the top of Fox Farm Road, according to police.

X–rays revealed the dog "had a bullet in him," according to Sgt. Breen, but otherwise seemed "in good shape."

The suspect is facing charges of carrying a concealed weapon, cruelty to animals and drug offences. He is expected to appear in court on Monday.

Police say the dog received medical care and is staying with the Saint John SPCA.