GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – Deputies in Georgetown County are investigating an animal cruelty situation where seven dogs were found shot and killed.

The Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office said law enforcement was notified Sunday night of an incident on Gapway Road.

When deputies arrived, they found seven pitbulls dead from a gunshot wound on the top of their head. All of the animals were chained and secured in the yard of the property, according to Heather Pelham, spokesperson for the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office.

A witness told authorities that she had checked on the animals earlier in the day and they were unharmed during her visit. Officials said they have interviewed a person of interest, but that person provided evidence for their whereabouts at the time of the killings.

An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday morning to retrieve crime evidence or remaining bullets.

Citizens with information on the case are urged to contact the sheriff’s office at 843-546-5102.