On June 21 at 7:30 PM, officers responded to a residence located in the 7700 block of Gateshead Ln. in Manassas (20109) to investigate an initial report of a missing adult. The missing adult, later identified as the accused, was eventually located at an area hospital after being transported by rescue personnel earlier in the day. The investigation revealed earlier that afternoon, shortly before 2:00 PM, that the accused was determined to be under the influence of medications mixed with alcohol when he fired multiple rounds inside the residence. The rounds struck the family’s pit bull which was later found dead at the home. A neighboring residence was also struck during the gunfire. The gunshots were not immediately reported to police. At approximately 6:00PM, a medical call was received at nearby SplashDown Water Park resulting in the accused being transported to an area hospital by rescue personnel. Police were not contacted as the condition of the accused appeared medical in nature. When family members returned to the residence on Gateshead Ln later that evening, the accused was not located, and police were contacted. When officers arrived at the home, they determined multiple gunshots had been fired inside the residence by the accused which struck and killed the dog, as well as struck an exterior wall of a neighboring residence. No additional injuries or property damage were reported. Animal Control responded and collected the dog. The accused was ultimately located at the hospital where he remains hospitalized. Following the investigation, officers obtained warrants for the accused, identified as Daniel Charles TAYLOR.
Charged on June 21: [No Photo Available] Daniel Charles TAYLOR, 32, of 7758 Gateshead Ln. in Manassas Charged with shooting into an occupied dwelling, reckless handling of a firearm, and felony animal cruelty Court Date: Pending | Status: Remains Hospitalized