HOUSTON -- A pit bull was shot by deputies as they attempted to contain it in southwest Houston Monday, KPRC Local 2 reported.

Two Precinct 5 civil deputies were working out of a storefront near Troulon Drive and Beech Cove Lane when they spotted a pit bull running loose.

Deputies said they noticed a group of children waiting for a bus nearby and attempted to block the dog's path with their patrol car.

Animal control was called to the scene while the deputies tried to contain the pit bull in a nearby yard, officials said.

Officials said a deputy then fired his weapon at the dog, striking it in the foot, as it charged another deputy.

Animal control arrived on scene and was able to sedate the animal and detain it, deputies said.

Neighbors and witnesses said this was not the first time the dog has been loose and tried to attack people.

Investigators are questioning the owner of the pit bull, who arrived at the scene moments after the dog was detained.

The pit bull is alive and in stable condition, according to authorities.