A search for a missing german shepherd has ended in tragedy, with police vowing to find those responsible.’
A week-long search for a missing family dog ended in heartbreak when Arnie, a german shepherd, was found dead inside a stolen ute in Fortitude Valley.
Between 1.30am and 5am on Saturday, November 8, a 2012 black Toyota HiLux was stolen from Davidson St. Arnie, the owner’s dog, was inside at the time.
Since the theft, police have worked around the clock following all lines of inquiry to locate both Arnie and the stolen HiLux.
The search also drew widespread attention around the state, with social media users and news outlets sharing the case and urging anyone with information to come forward.
Arnie, a beloved german shepherd, was in the stolen ute at the time of the theft, prompting a widespread search across Brisbane and surrounding districts.
Investigations spread across Brisbane and surrounding districts after reports of Arnie sightings from members of the public, but none were confirmed.
At 4pm on Friday, November 14, a member of the public found the stolen vehicle parked on Amelia St in Fortitude Valley. Arnie was discovered deceased inside the ute.
The stolen HiLux was found on Amelia St in Fortitude Valley on 14 November.
Detective Senior Sergeant Christopher Lafferty said the news was devastating for investigators.
“We hadn’t given up hope of finding Arnie and being able to reunite him with his family,” Sergeant Lafferty said.
“Investigators are devastated by this discovery and our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.
“Officers remain committed to finding justice for Arnie and his family and will continue to investigate any report to identify and locate the offender.”
The family shared their grief on social media.
The family shared their grief on Facebook, thanking the public for their support over the past week.
“We sincerely want to thank everyone for all your help over the past week in the search for our boy Arnie,” the post read.
“Unfortunately there isn’t a better outcome and Arnie was found yesterday deceased, still in the back of the Ute that was stolen.
“We are beyond devastated, he didn’t deserve to go like this. We had the best life with him and he is going to be so missed.”
Police are continuing to urge anyone with information or dashcam and CCTV footage that has not yet been reported to come forward.