A cockapoo puppy was run over and killed in West Kingsdown in Kent by a car containing three suspected robbers.
Kent Police said a man was walking his twin dogs on London Road when a car pulled up and three men got out, two carrying weapons, demanding his phone.
During the ordeal, the victim accidentally let go of one of the dog leads and Milo, an 11-month-old pup, ran to a nearby pavement where it stood barking. The suspects then drove off towards the M25 and ran over the dog in the process, killing him.
A police statement said the incident happened around 10.45pm on Monday in an area nearby Brands Hatch racing circuit.
A grey Ford EcoSport travelled from the direction of Wrotham Hill and drove past the victim before turning around and coming to a halt alongside him on the wrong side of the road.
The statement added: “It is alleged the man who was driving demanded he hand over his mobile phone, while two other men got out of the vehicle holding weapons.”
Investigators are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting crime reference 46/191975/22.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55511.