Barrie Police and the OSPCA say a suspected case of animal cruelty got way out of hand Friday afternoon when a group of concerned citizens tried to take matters into their own hands after allegations were posted on social media.

Tyler Yurek saw the argument that happened at south end variety store Friday afternoon, an argument he says got out of hand.

“He brought his dog out and then people tried to take his dog from him and then it was a big huge fight and the dog started to get hurt.”

Yurek says about a dozen people ambushed the store owner and tried to take his dog away from him, because of a suspected case of animal cruelty.

“It got really intense and people started getting hit and pushed over and screaming and it was a little bit nerve-racking I guess.”

Police say the fight broke out after someone posted pictures on Facebook Friday, accusing the owner of treating the German shepherd poorly, keeping the animal in what they call a small crate.

“We couldn’t qualify the information that was being provided regarding cruelty to this animal. It was found in good health. We did refer the information over to the OSPCA for further investigation on their part,” says Barrie Police Constable Audrey Gastmeier.

The owner of the store didn’t want to appear on camera but told CTV News he believes it was all a misunderstanding but says the way the situation unfolded has been very upsetting.

Police say they are not planning to lay any charges. They also say this incident escalated very quickly all because of one social media post.

“Social media can be a great forum for sharing information but unfortunately when it’s misinformation and people are reacting to it, without qualifying that information it can lead to problems,” adds Constable Gatsmeier.

The OSPCA says it will be investigating the case as it does with every report it receives. But the organization wants to remind the public not to take matters into their own hands. People should contact local police or the OSPCA if they feel there is a concern about animal cruelty.