A tragic incident unfolded this past week on 57th Street in Niagara Falls as police were contacted after a reported hit-and-run involving a puppy. Security cameras captured several images of the vehicle and female driver as it left the scene.
Michele Religa, the puppy's owner, took to Facebook and posted about the incident (see above):
"Please be on the look out for this car that has a smashed back window it is a grey Small SUV. License plate starts with JDL ... she left the scene after killing our puppy. She stopped down the street she knew what she did and when we told her to stop she took off!! Please share!!"
As of today the unknown female suspect has not been identified. The smashed back window of her SUV should assist in someone providing useful information that can help law enforcement in this investigation. The puppy's family is seeking justice and that the female motorist be held responsible for her actions.
Under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 601, if someone hit a dog they must inform the owner or custodian of the animal or police and give that person the following information:
Name
Address
Proof of insurance, including the carrier's name and effective dates of the policy
License number
In addition, they must make a reasonable effort to make sure the animal receives appropriate attention. In essence, this means that the motorist must stop, either call the police or find the dog's owner, and then provide personal information as outlined above. Failure to do so can result in fines.
Any information regarding the striking vehicle can be directed to the Traffic Division at (716) 286-4563, the Police Information line at (716) 286-4711 or by e-mail at nfpd.trafficdivision@gmail.com.
Vehicle Flees Scene After Killing Puppy in Niagara Falls