Amsterdam Family Seeks Justice After Dog Hit-and-Run
Tragic Accident Shatters Family’s Routine
The DeZolt family would walk their Bull Terrier, Nora, every day where they live on McDonald Drive. Their daily routine was shattered late Tuesday afternoon. Hope DeZolt and Nora were crossing the street when a motorcycle was driving by.
Heartbreaking Incident
“The motorcycle actually just runs right into our dog, Nora, throwing her across the road. Unfortunately, killing her; breaking her neck,” described Charlie DeZolt, Hope’s husband.
Family Devastated by Loss
Charlie and their daughter, Bethany, said Hope screamed for the driver to stop as he slowed down by her home and then kept on driving.
Nora had been a part of the DeZolt family for almost a year. “We’re just absolutely devastated that we lost a family member who is one of us,” said Bethany DeZolt. “We are just extremely heartbroken. We’re very lucky my mother did not get hit but it also could have been her.”
Investigation and Call to Action
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the hit-and-run and asking for help. A video on Instagram shows the motorcyclist driving by on what looks to be a cruiser style with saddlebags. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 518-853-5500.
Sheriff’s Perspective
“When there’s an accident involving a pet or a dog like that, if they say on scene and report it properly and it’s investigated, depending on the circumstances, they are rarely charged,” explained Sheriff Jeff Smith.
Paws Act
Montgomery County Executive Elect, Pete Vroman, sent NEWS10 the following statement:
“I know that each event has to be investigated for all contributing factors, but I strongly feel that our pets or our service animals should always be protected from reckless driving. Fines for this behavior should be stiff.” Both Vroman and Smith are for something like the PAWS Act in Montgomery County, which would increase penalties for hitting and killing pets.
Conclusion
The tragic incident has left the DeZolt family devastated, and they are seeking justice for the senseless killing of their beloved pet, Nora. The community is coming together to support the family and encourage anyone with information to come forward. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is working diligently to investigate the hit-and-run and bring the responsible party to justice.
FAQs
Q: What happened to the dog?
A: Nora, the DeZolt family’s Bull Terrier, was hit by a motorcycle and killed on Tuesday afternoon.
Q: Is the driver in custody?
A: No, the driver has not been identified or taken into custody yet. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and asking for anyone with information to come forward.
Q: What is the PAWS Act?
A: The PAWS Act (Protecting Animals and their Welfare Safely) is a proposed legislation that aims to increase penalties for hitting and killing pets.
Q: Can I help the DeZolt family?
A: Yes, you can support the DeZolt family by sharing this article, donating to an animal-related charity, or simply sending a kind message to the family.