A GUARD dog has died after being shot in the face by a gunman in an attempted burglary on a lorry yard.Max, an 18-month-old German Shepherd, was a guard dog at Colchester General Repairs at the Pertwee Complex at Hythe Quay but was also a much-loved family pet.
A GUARD dog has died after being shot in the face by a gunman in an attempted burglary on a lorry yard.
Max, an 18-month-old German Shepherd, was a guard dog at Colchester General Repairs at the Pertwee Complex at Hythe Quay but was also a much-loved family pet.
Devastated owner Paul Horwood was called to the premises on Sunday night by nearby residents and found the injured animal under a mobile crane where he had crawled after being shot.
He wrapped Max, who was still conscious, in a sheet and alerted an emergency veterinary service but despite their efforts it was decided that Max, who had lost part of his jaw and an eye, was too badly injured to survive and he was put down.
Essex Police said witnesses had reported seeing a white man running from the premises. He had long hair, was wearing a blue hat, a long, dark jacket and jeans.
There was a Mitsubishi Shogun, possibly green, which was parked nearby which police said may or may not be linked to the investigation.
They appealed for the owner to come forward so he or she could be eliminated from the investigation.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to ring Colchester police on 0300 333 4444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
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