Owner of killed horses speaks out

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - Shannon Bayhi is an animal lover, and was once the proud owner of a gorgeous female horse named Dreamer.

But not wanting to play favorites, Bayhi would also take out her son's horse, Sierra, from time to time.

However, on Tuesday, she and her son were forced to lay the once proud steeds to rest.

"They were my pets. I loved them," Bayhi said. "I've had them, mine for over a year, and the other one longer than that, a couple years, the one that belonged to my son. They were just my pets. They were real sweet and just didn't deserve to die."

Escambia County deputies said Richard Owen, Bayhi's ex-husband, led the horses into the woods Tuesday morning, baiting them with dog food. When they were out of sight, investigators said Owen shot the horses.

It wasn't until a neighbor called when Bayhi learned what had occurred on her property. When she got the call, she rushed there immediately, and was horrified at what she found.

"He just had no reason whatsoever to shoot them in the head," Bayhi said.  "They were just innocent animals."

Bayhi said she and Owen both own the Baronne Street property, but since they've separated, neither has lived there permanently.

If you ask Bayhi, Owen is right where he belongs, behind bars.

"I think he should stay there," Bayhi said.

Owen is in the Escambia County jail on $11,000 bond. He's charged with felony animal cruelty and carrying a concealed firearm.

Owens will appear before a judge on June 7.