On July 4 in Los Angeles, an as-of-yet unidentified person pulled this pit bull out of the bed of his pickup truck, strapped fireworks on his body, set him ablaze, and then left him to die in an alley.
But the 2-year-old pit bull, now called Indy by his rescuers, survived. Now there's a $15,000 reward for anyone who can help track down the person who police say set Indy on fire, according to an NBC Los Angeles report.
The fire happened between Kittridge and Hamlin streets in Winnetka, the TV station reports. A witness confronted the driver but he fled the scene.
The surveillance photo of the truck is pretty grainy, but it's almost certainly a late 80s/early 90s Toyota truck of some sort similar to this one. At least, that's what we think. The truck may be a pretty common model, but this one is distinctive for its white body and black stripe. A witness also saw a toolbox in the bed.
The TV station says that anyone with information about the truck or its driver is asked to call the LAPD Animal Cruelty Task Force at 213-486-0450. Tips can also be called into 1-877-LAPD-24-7. They can be left anonymously by calling 1-800-222-TIPS.
As for Indy, described as a "sweet and gentle" dog by his rescuers, he is expected to live despite his severe burns. But his doctors say he will have trouble walking and may face other disabilities. If you want to donate to his recovery fund, go to LA's S.T.A.R.T. Rescue.
Spread the word, Jalops. Let's see if we can't bring the person who committed this unspeakably horrible crime to justice.
Photos credit START Rescue/LAPD