Residents living barely 30 metres from the vehicle where their dog Arnie’s lifeless body was later discovered have released disturbing CCTV footage that captures the pet’s desperate final moments — including what appears to be a struggle for help before he was attacked by strangers.
The heartbreaking footage, recorded shortly after midnight, shows Arnie limping toward the edge of the property’s driveway, repeatedly glancing back as if seeking refuge. Seconds later, two unidentified individuals emerge from the darkness.
The Final Struggle Caught on Camera
The video, timestamped less than 40 minutes before the dog’s body was found inside a locked car nearby, reveals Arnie attempting to approach the porch light of the home — a behavior the owners say he only displayed when frightened.
One of the strangers can be seen bending down, grabbing Arnie by the collar as he tries to pull away. The second individual briefly blocks the camera’s view before Arnie lets out a final, agonized yelp.
The homeowners, who discovered the footage only after police informed them of the dog’s death, say they were left “shattered” by what they saw.
“He was trying to come home. He knew he was being hurt — and he was looking for us,” one of the owners said, visibly shaken.
The Car That Held the Body
Arnie’s body was discovered shortly afterward in the backseat of an abandoned hatchback parked along the same road. Investigators believe the attackers may have forced the dog into the vehicle before leaving the scene on foot.
Authorities have not confirmed the cause of death but described the incident as “suspicious and violent.”
Police Investigating Identity of the Strangers
Detectives are now working to enhance the footage to identify the individuals seen in the video. Both appear to be wearing hooded clothing and gloves, and one may have a distinctive mark on his right wrist.
A police spokesperson stated:
“This footage is crucial. We urge anyone who recognizes these individuals or saw unusual activity in the area to come forward immediately.”
Community Outrage and Growing Public Pressure
Arnie was well-known in the neighborhood, often seen accompanying his owners on morning walks. Since the release of the footage, residents have created makeshift memorials near the spot where the car was found.
Animal welfare advocates are calling for harsher penalties for animal cruelty and for the attackers to be brought to justice swiftly.
Owners Plead for Answers
The homeowners say they released the footage to help investigators and to ensure Arnie’s final moments were not forgotten.
“He didn’t die alone. Someone did this to him. And they need to be found,” the family said in a statement.
The investigation remains ongoing.
