A DOG has been died after it was shot with an air weapon in a car park of Ryfields House, which is just off Holmfields Road in Bankfields, Middlesbrough.

The12-year-old Jack Russell, called Millie, was hit by an air weapon at around 6am on Sunday, November 19. Officers took the dog to a local vet, however, she died.

Prior to the weapon being fired, there were two people at the location riding a motorcycle. Both of them were wearing balaclavas. They made off towards Holmfields Road after the shot was fired.

A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said: “It is unimaginable and heartless that someone would purposely hurt an animal and then leave it dying in the road. Those responsible need to be caught and dealt with appropriately.”

Any witnesses or anyone with information regarding those riding the motorcycle or those responsible is asked to contact PC Carl Cooper from Kirkleatham Police Office on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org