- Elizabeth Shores
- Apr 4, 2026 Updated 1 hr ago
- Hunter speaks out after son’s dog is killed in a hunting tournament by an unknown shooter, investigation underway | Local News | ktvo.com
Update, 04/05/26: In a statement to KTVO, Director of Hunting Operations for the United Kennel Club Allen Gingerich wrote:
“Wipe Out Katie
The following is presented by Allen Gingerich, Director of Hunting Operations for the United Kennel Club, on behalf of the coonhound “Katie,” who was shot and killed during an annual invitational competition for the most elite hounds in the country—the UKC Tournament of Champions.
For many, even today, hunting with hounds is a longstanding tradition passed down through generations. It is a way of life. Our hounds become an extension of who we are—our partners and our closest companions. Countless nights and hours are devoted to training, bonding, and learning together. Those fortunate enough to have spent time with a truly good hound are deeply captivated by their instincts, intelligence, and ability. We are proud of them. In competition, they are our teammates, deserving of our respect, honor, and care—often placed ahead of our own well-being.
Katie was nine years old—an accomplished hound who earned the distinguished title of UKC Grand Nite Champion. A seasoned veteran of the woods, she was also the kind that teaches young “pups,” like the Grimes’ 12-year-old boy, lessons and life experiences that cannot be learned anywhere else. These are the moments that shape character, build tradition, and are meant to be passed down to future generations.
This senseless act is an outrage to the hound-hunting community who stand in honor of a fallen hound and the hands that her—many of whom never met Katie or the Grimes family. They understand better than anyone that she was far more than just a dog. The person responsible must be held accountable and face the consequences of such a reckless and indefensible act.”
Original, 04/04/26: KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – A hunter is speaking out after he says his dog was shot and killed in a championship hunting tournament in Kirksville Friday night.
Larry Grimes says he and his son were hunting with their nine-year-old dog Grand Nite Champion Wipeout Katie (GRNITECH’PR’Wipeout Katie), or Katie, in the tournament around 9:30 p.m. when he heard gunshots, and she “went silent.” Grimes says he checked his Garmin, which tracks Katie’s collar. Her location turned into a question mark, indicating the collar had been either turned off or tampered with. When Grimes, his son and a judge found her, she was dead, and her collar was gone. He told us what he felt in that moment.
“Nothing but rage—pure anger, heartfelt rage. More hurt for my child than anything. No 12-year-old boy should have to see his dog killed. […] He told me on the way home last night, ‘Dad, I want to sell my other dogs. I don’t want to hunt anymore.’ I said, ‘Why is that, Buddy?’ He said, ‘Because I don’t want this hurt ever again,’” Grimes said.
Grimes says a county conservation agent told him there wasn’t much that could be done in regard to criminal legal action, except to take whoever shot Katie to small claims court. As he understands it, the person who shot Katie could potentially only face a misdemeanor charge.
Grimes suspects he knows who shot Katie, but nothing is confirmed. The Adair County Sheriff’s Office did confirm to KTVO that an investigation into the shooting is underway.
“We’re going to pursue every legal action available. […] We are going to take this as far as we’ve got to take it to seek justice for our pet,” Grimes said.
Grimes says multiple hunting organizations have reached out to support them. We plan on reaching out to the Adair County Sheriff’s Office Monday morning to get more information from case investigators.
We also reached out to tournament organizers for comment but haven’t heard back.
The Missouri Coon Hunters Federation has set up a GoFundMe for the Grimes’ legal fees.