Former Soccer Player Detained After Viral Video Allegedly Shows Him Dangling Dog From Apartment Window

A disturbing viral video has sparked outrage online after allegedly showing a former professional soccer player holding a small dog upside down by its hind legs outside an apartment window several floors above the ground.

Héctor Alejandro Rosales Bonilla, 64, was detained in San Salvador, El Salvador, on October 20, 2026, after the footage circulated on social media, according to PEOPLE.

In the video, the small dog appears to be suspended outside a window while the man holds up a phone, seemingly recording or photographing the animal. The dog can reportedly be heard crying out as it hangs in the air for several seconds before being pulled back inside.

The footage quickly drew public attention, prompting El Salvador’s National Civil Police and the San Salvador mayor’s office to intervene. Authorities subsequently rescued the dog and announced that Rosales Bonilla would be referred for prosecution on animal abuse charges.

San Salvador Mayor Mario Durán said the rescued dog was safe and would receive the care it needed. Officials also shared photographs from the intervention showing the man in police custody, with another small dog visible at the scene.

According to reports, Rosales Bonilla previously played professional soccer for C.D. Águila in El Salvador’s top division during the 1990s and now works as a dentist. He could not immediately be reached for comment.

While the investigation continues, the case has raised serious concerns about animal welfare and the dangers faced by pets when placed in precarious situations.

Will the viral footage lead to further legal consequences? Authorities have indicated that the case will proceed for possible prosecution, but the final legal outcome remains to be determined.

Source: PEOPLE – Former Soccer Pro Allegedly Dangled Dog From Apartment Window by Hind Legs in Viral Video