A 12-year-old Cairn Terrier-type dog named Zak was stolen while being walked by his owner's son in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales, and later found dead on a railway track. The incident occurred on Saturday, April 18, when Ryan Collins, described as a vulnerable adult, was walking Zak along the Taff Trail between Mountain Ash and Penrhiwceiber.
Three youths allegedly seized the dog's lead and fled the scene. Family friend Susan Grandon claimed the perpetrators later abandoned Zak on a railway line, where he was struck by a train and killed.
Within hours of the dog's death, the hashtag #Justice4Zak began trending on Facebook, with local residents changing their profile pictures in support. A major search operation, attended by family and friends, was initially launched after Zak was allegedly stolen.
Owners Janet and Ryan have requested privacy as they grieve. South Wales Police are investigating and urge anyone with information to contact them.
