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Fort Collins man accused of stabbing dog, assaulting person

The violent incident happened early Tuesday near the Old Town neighborhood in Fort Collins, police said.

FORT COLLINS, Colo. — A 35-year-old man was arrested after police said he stabbed a dog and assaulted another man early Tuesday morning, according to Fort Collins Police Services (FCPS).

Police said they were called to a home in the 400 block of Smith Street because of a disturbance. That's near Mulberry Street and Riverside Avenue near Old Town.

Others who were in the house were able to get out safely. They told police Aaron La Guardia was high on illegal drugs.

People in the home told officers La Guardia had stabbed a dog and then assaulted another man who lived at the home.

The assault victim was OK, but the dog died from its injuries.

La Guardia didn't initially come out of the home, according to a FCPS news release.

Credit: Google Maps

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Police said officers reached La Guardia by phone and were able to get him to surrender peacefully.

"Illegal substances can cause erratic, unpredictable and extremely dangerous behavior," said FCPS Chief Jeff Swoboda. "Using hard drugs can have devastating outcomes. If you or someone you know has a substance dependency issue, help is available in our community."

La Guardia was arrested on suspicion of:

  • Aggravated cruelty to animals
  • First-degree burglary
  • Felony menacing
  • Third-degree assault.
Credit: Larimer County Sheriff's Office

He was booked into the Larimer County jail Tuesday, but jail records show that he has since bonded out.

FCPS shared this link for people looking for help with substance abuse or behavioral health services. 

RELATED: Mental health and addiction resources for Colorado residents

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