LOS ANGELES — The assistant of Lady Gaga, who was shot Wednesday night by thieves that stole the singer’s dogs, is from Cincinnati, according to the NY Post. The man is expected to fully recover, and the Associated Press reports the dogs were recovered unharmed Friday night.
The outlet reports Ryan Fischer was born in Cincinnati but lists himself on social media as being from Hudson, New York. Fischer recently moved to Los Angeles, where he was ambushed by two men who stole two of Gaga's three French bulldogs before shooting Fischer once in the chest, according to multiple reports.
According to People Magazine, one of the men can be heard in a video obtained by TMZ saying, "Give it up" to Fischer before a gunshot is heard. The two men then appear to get into a car and flee with two of the dogs Fischer was walking. The third French bulldog was not taken and is seen in the video coming to Fischer's side after the attack.
It is unclear if Fischer or Gaga were targeted in the attack.
Fischer's family released the following statement to ABC Friday night: "As you know, our beloved Ryan was the victim of a horrible, violent crime on Wednesday evening in Los Angeles. Thankfully, Ryan is receiving extraordinary care in the hospital right now and his doctors expect him to make a full recovery. We cannot possibly say enough to thank all of the first responders, nurses and doctors who have worked so tirelessly to care for Ryan. Of course, we also want to thank Lady Gaga, who has shown nothing but non-stop love and concern for Ryan and our family right from the outset. Ryan loves Gustavo and Koji as much as Lady Gaga does; so we join in her plea for their safe return."
Dog theft has been on the rise with French Bulldogs being one of the most commonly stolen dog breeds, according to the American Kennel Club. Their high value and small frame make them likely targets for dog-nappers.
To protect your dog from would-be nappers, AKC recommends being tight-lipped about where you live and how much you paid for your dog. It is also important to make sure your dog is microchipped and that their contact information is up to date. Be careful leaving your dog outside unattended, especially if your yard is accessible or visible to strangers. AKC also warns against leaving your dog alone in the car during errands, even if for just a few minutes.
