In September of the previous year, the family of Semīts visited Jekabpils animal cemetery to mourn their dog, which had been killed. The burial took place several months after the dog’s death due to the time needed for forensic examinations. The family stated that they have not been informed of the investigation results, as police mentioned that it was ongoing. Anta, the mother of the deceased dog’s owner, shared that the police in Līvāni are working on the case due to perceived conflicts of interest, leading to fears regarding the investigation's objectivity.

The family suspects that the person they believe to be responsible for the shooting has connections within local services that complicate the matter. In response to their concerns about the investigation’s fairness, the case has been transferred to the Latgale authorities. However, Egija, the dog's owner, expressed dissatisfaction with the investigative progress, pointing out that several neighbors have been called in as witnesses while she herself has not yet been interviewed, which she finds quite strange.

Residents in the district previously reported at least 26 cases of pet shootings over the years during a poster campaign, highlighting a troubling pattern regarding pet safety in the area. Despite these reports, the State Police informed regional television that they are facing challenges in adequately addressing these issues, bringing further attention to the animals' safety and owners' anxieties within the community.