Catskill PD investigate hit-and-run causing dog death

CATSKILL, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- A recent hit-and-run of a dog in the Village is being investigated by the Catskill Police Department. The driver suspected of hitting the husky named Rocky has been found.

Police say around 6 p.m. on Oct. 10, the husky had been running loose around Main Street, when it ran into the road near the Greene County Building, at the corner of Thompson and Main Streets, and was struck by a car, who drove away. Catskill Police found the dog on the ground and called Hyer Ground Rescue for help.

"When we got down to the location, we saw a beautiful husky laying there with the owner's sister," Jamie Mitchell, founder of Hyer Ground Rescue said. "She has said the dog had gotten out of the location where the dog was staying and got away from her."

Mitchell told NEWS10 they immediately called the Catskill Dog Control Officer John Acconero, to transport Rocky to the Ulster Animal Hospital. Upon examination at the animal hospital, the recommendation was euthanasia.

"Due to the gravity of the internal injuries and liver lacerations, the dog was urinating blood. Surgery would've been an option, but the vet felt that the eternal injuries were severe enough from euthanasia," Mitchell said.

The decision, however, was left to the owner, who agreed to the procedure. The rescue then covered the cost of the visit and the procedure, costing them about $500.

Catskill Police Seargent Stephen Deitz told NEWS10 video taken at the time of the crash, led the department to get a better description of both the vehicle and the driver. Recently, the department was able to locate both.

"He's been interviewed and currently at this time we are continuing the investigation," Deitz said. Potential charges may arise after further investigation, as police plan on interviewing the man again.

"We'll start with leaving the scene of a personal injury auto accident. It's unsure at this time whether or not he could be charged with anything else, but we will investigate further and see if more charges will be pending," Deitz added.

In September, The PAWS Act was introduced in a state bill that would increase penalties for hitting and killing pets, currently the fine is about $50. Catskill Police say if you do hit an animal, to let them know immediately, so they can hopefully let the owner know.