On Jan. 22, in far-north Bexar County, a dog named Artemis reportedly crawled back to his home with a shattered spine and died hours later, his owner says. Cristian Salinas-Skahan told reporters that veterinarians determined the injury came from a single gunshot and that the location of the wound suggested it was not accidental. The loss has pushed the owner to press neighbors and law enforcement for answers, as reported by KSAT.
Owner says the wound was intentional
Salinas-Skahan told local reporters that a family member had let Artemis outside, the dog ran off, and later returned badly injured. Veterinarians, he said, found a wound to the spine that was likely caused by a single bullet. The Bexar County Sheriff's Office told local media it has "no evidence at this time to prove where Artemis was shot or who pulled the trigger." KSAT published the account and quoted Salinas-Skahan saying, "It was intentional. One hundred percent."
Artemis became a symbol for Destiny players
Artemis's story spread far beyond San Antonio after a Make-A-Wish-linked tribute and an in-game appearance in Destiny 2, where his likeness inspired a robotic companion called Archie and the Loyal Companion emote. The one-time wish was arranged through the Bungie Foundation, and gaming outlets later shared the story. Dexerto covered Salinas-Skahan's post about Artemis and the wider online reaction.
What the law allows
Under Texas law, intentionally torturing, killing, or causing serious bodily injury to a pet can be charged as a felony. Cruelty to non-livestock animals is addressed in Penal Code section 42.092 and can be prosecuted as a third-degree felony when the conduct results in serious bodily injury or death. The full statute and penalties are listed in the Texas Penal Code.
Investigators urge witnesses to come forward
Salinas-Skahan says he wants accountability and has urged neighbors with doorbell or security camera footage to share anything that could help investigators. As the Bexar County Sheriff's Office continues to probe the case, KSAT reports that anyone with information can call the sheriff's office at 210-335-6000.
