Suspect named in killing of man during dispute over hitting poodle

Last month, Michael Davis chased down a truck in Lancaster that ran over his poodle.

Authorities said minutes later, the 22-year-old was dead, shot six times by the driver of the truck.

Now investigators are searching for Demonte Antone Thomas, who is suspected of killing Davis.

“There was a confrontation about ‘You hurt my dog. I need some money for the vet,’ ” said Lt. Victor Lewandowksi of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau.

Davis had a son and his girlfriend was expecting another child. Authorities said Davis’ dog was run over June 26 in a parking lot in the 600 block of East Avenue H14. Upset, Davis wanted Thomas to pay for his injured pet’s medical expenses, sheriff’s officials said.

Thomas drove away, but later returned and shot Davis at least six times, authorities said.

Anyone with details about Thomas’ whereabouts is urged to call the sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500 or to leave a tip anonymously call (800) 222-8477.

Times staff writer Harriet Ryan contributed to this post.

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