Suspect arrested in shooting of Beefcakes the pit bull

A 38-year-old man is facing charges related to the shooting of a pit bull that was found walking aimlessly in an empty parking lot on July 7.

The Daily Camera reports rescuers have named the dog Beefcakes and say he’s recovering. The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office arrested 38-year-old Russell William Middleton in connection with the shooting and released him on bond until he’s formally charged on Aug. 27.

A tip from the dog’s previous owner led investigators to Middleton, who declined to comment on Tuesday.

Deputies say Beefcakes was shot after the dog got into a fight and caused injuries to a Chihuahua owned by Middleton’s girlfriend.

Officials at the Longmont Humane Society say Beefcakes will be fostered and put up for adoption once he recovers.