In a disturbing case that has sparked outrage across North Carolina, a 19-year-old man has been charged with felony animal cruelty after allegedly shooting and killing his ex-girlfriend’s dog “out of spite” following a breakup.
Authorities say the act was intentional, vengeful, and deeply cruel — leaving a grieving family and a community demanding justice.
What Happened on June 26?
The incident took place in Cameron, North Carolina, a small town about 65 miles southwest of Raleigh. According to court documents and a probable cause affidavit, Marco Antonio-Manuel De La Cruz went to his ex-girlfriend’s home on Pine Oak Lane to collect his belongings after their recent breakup.
Witnesses said De La Cruz appeared angry and upset, and at one point, he allegedly made a chilling decision that would shock the family forever. As the family dog, Luna, was let outside to relieve herself, De La Cruz picked her up, walked to the side of the front yard, and — in a horrifying act — shot her multiple times at close range.
A Cold and Calculated Act
According to the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office, De La Cruz used a semi-automatic handgun and pressed the barrel against Luna’s ribcage, firing around four shots at point-blank range. Officials described the act as an “execution” in the affidavit.
Before pulling the trigger, a witness heard De La Cruz say, “I’m tired of this s—”, suggesting the act was motivated by his emotional state following the breakup. Investigators confirmed that Luna did not provoke or attack him at any point.
After shooting the dog, De La Cruz allegedly carried her lifeless body into nearby woods and discarded her in a ditch. A short while later, his ex-girlfriend discovered her beloved pet’s body.
Arrest and Charges
De La Cruz was arrested on July 10, 2025, and charged with felony cruelty to animals, a serious offense under North Carolina law. He was booked into the Harnett County Jail and held on a $50,000 bond, which he later posted. He was released on July 15, just five days after the arrest.
He is scheduled to appear in court for a disposition hearing on July 29, 2025. The case is expected to draw public attention, especially from animal rights groups and residents upset by the brutal nature of the act.
A Community Left in Shock
This case has deeply affected not just the victim’s family, but the wider community as well. Luna was described by those close to the family as a gentle and loving pet, and the act of violence committed against her has been widely condemned.
Such acts of cruelty raise serious concerns about emotional stability, anger control, and the impact of breakups on young individuals, especially when revenge becomes a motive. Experts warn that violence toward animals is often a red flag for deeper emotional or psychological issues.
This heartbreaking case is a reminder of how quickly emotions can spiral into violence. While breakups can be painful, no amount of personal hurt justifies such a brutal and malicious act. Luna’s death is not just the loss of a pet — it’s a tragic result of misplaced anger and cruelty.
As the legal process unfolds, the hope is that justice will be served and that this case sends a strong message about the value of animal life and accountability for those who harm them.
