Heartless Driver Intentionally Runs Over Puppy in Santa Ana Neighborhood

On Wednesday, August 7th, at approximately 7:30 a.m., Animal Control Officers responded to a residential neighborhood after receiving a report of a seriously injured puppy, according to the SAPD.

During their investigation, police officers discovered video surveillance footage showing a Suburban driving through a residential neighborhood in the area of Dahl Lane between Shawnee and Mohawk Drive. The Suburban came to a stop, and the driver got out of the vehicle, appearing to release a dog from it.

Just one minute later, the driver callously ran over the puppy before driving away. Fortunately, a compassionate bystander heard the dog's distress and rushed to help.

Although the suspect vehicle returned to the scene, neither the driver nor the vehicle stopped to assist the injured puppy.

The SAPD Animal Control Officers quickly transported the 2-month-old female Rottweiler to a local animal hospital, where it underwent emergency surgery.

Despite sustaining a broken rib cage, the puppy is expected to make a full recovery and is currently being cared for at the Orange County Animal Shelter.

Suspect Description:

UNKNOWN

Suspect Vehicle Description:

2000-2006 gray Chevrolet Suburban with chrome after-market rims, silver decals, and an unknown license plate.

The SAPD is urging anyone with information about the suspect or suspect vehicle to contact the Santa Ana Police Department at (714) 245-8211 or the Watch Commander at (714) 245-8700.

What do you think?

• Should animal cruelty penalties be stricter?
• How can communities better protect vulnerable animals?
• Do you think the suspect will be apprehended?
• Should there be harsher consequences for hit-and-run incidents involving animals?