Dog crushed to death by owner during confrontation with mugger

A dog was crushed to death by its owner after she was knocked over during a confrontation with a mugger in an “unprovoked and unacceptable” attack.

Norfolk Terrier, Rufus was crushed while the woman tried to pull the thief off her husband.

The man, 56 and his 36 year old wife were walking their two dogs in Westminster, central London, when they were approached by a man pushing a bike along the footpath.

The man, who wore a face covering and gloves, stopped the pair before pulling the watch off the man's arm, causing scratches to his forearm.

The pair began to struggle and it was at this point that the wife tried to pull the mugger away during the attack at 4.15pm in Spanish Place on August 4.

The victim was punched several times in the face as the struggle continued and he gave chase as the man made off through Manchester Square.

He caught up with him on Hinge Street where he was again punched in the face before the mugger cycled away through Duke Street towards Selfridges.

The victims were taken by officers to a London veterinary clinic where they said goodbye to their dog. The victims were then taken home by the officers.

Detective Inspector Lee Hannant, West Area Command Unit said: "This was an unprovoked and unacceptable attack that has left the victims shocked and upset.

"The attack has led to the needless death of the victims' well-loved dog.

"I'd ask anyone who recognises the man in the image released today to get in touch.

"If you know what happened, or even if you think you saw anything suspicious or out of place, please call us without delay and report what you know."