Authorities search for man who shot police K-9 in Virginia

An undated photo provided by the Spotsylvania County, Va., Sheriff's Office shows K-9 Dax. Authorities are looking for a man they say shot Dax after he chased after the man in Virginia. The Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office says in a news release that 34-year-old Joseph Conway shot the dog Sunday night, Oct. 2, 2016, while attempting to flee from deputies. The K-9 was taken to a veterinary hospital where it was listed in serious condition. (Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office via AP) (The Associated Press)

This photo provided by Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office shows Joseph Conway, who authorities are looking for after they said he shot a K-9 that chased after him in Virginia. The incident began Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016, after deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. The driver was taken into custody without incident, but the passenger, later identified as Conway, exited the car, got into a fight with a deputy and fled the scene. (Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office via AP) (The Associated Press)

SPOTSYLVANIA, Va. – Authorities are looking for a man they say shot a K-9 that chased after him in Virginia.

The Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office says in a news release that 34-year-old Joseph Conway shot the dog Sunday night while attempting to flee from deputies.

The incident began Sunday evening after deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. The driver was taken into custody without incident, but the passenger, later identified as Conway, exited the car, got into a fight with a deputy and fled the scene.

Afterward, the K-9 was sent to chase the suspect. Conway then pulled out a gun and shot the dog. The K-9 was taken to a veterinary hospital where it was listed in serious condition.

Officials established a perimeter around the area and were looking for the suspect Monday morning.