HARTFORD — A tragic incident unfolded on Interstate 89 when a dog died after being tethered in the bed of a moving pickup truck and subsequently jumping onto the highway, Vermont State Police said.
On Nov. 29, at approximately 5:38 p.m., multiple calls were made to authorities regarding a dog that had leaped out of a pickup truck.
The German Shepard, known as Ace, was later fatally injured after being hit by a vehicle on the southbound lane, causing traffic to come to a near halt as people tried to save the animal.
Ace was rushed to Save’s Emergency Care in Lebanon, NH but later succumbed to his injuries.
The owner, Adam Howard, 33, of Leicester, NC, continued driving, reportedly unaware that Ace had jumped out.
Subsequent investigation revealed that Ace was leashed in a manner harmful to his well-being, as he managed to slip his collar and become unsecured.
Witnesses described the vehicle as a dark blue GMC pickup with plywood railings and additional debris in the bed.
Vermont State Troopers later located Howard, who was cited for animal cruelty and disorderly conduct before being released to answer to the charges.
The Vermont State Police had issued a plea for the truck operator to come forward and asked the public for information regarding the incident.
They encouraged anyone with knowledge about the truck or the operator to contact the Vermont State Police – Royalton Barracks or submit a tip online.
