Dog killed and owner injured in hit-and-run collision in Bransgore

A HIT-and-run driver is being sought after killing a dog and injuring its owner in an incident in a New Forest village.

Nathan James (28) has described how he was walking along Burley Road, Bransgore, last Thursday with his brother and terrier Lola when a blue camper van mounted the pavement.

His dog was dragged down the road under the wheels of the vehicle while Nathan – who has learning difficulties and several medical conditions – was hit on the hand.

After Nathan released Lola from underneath the vehicle, the driver allegedly drove off without stopping to check if he and his dog were okay.

Lola was rushed to the vet but had to be put down shortly afterwards from her substantial injuries. Nathan was taken to Lymington hospital with a fractured finger.

He told the A&T: “I am just so upset. When something like this happens, the driver needs to stop and say sorry.

“I am very shaken up by what happened. I’ve been having trouble with my epilepsy, having lots of fits, and struggling to leave the house. I just want justice for Lola.”

Nathan is looked after by his aunt, Lorna Wells, after losing his mother some years ago.

She said: “The dog was his companion and went everywhere with him. He literally had to

put his hand under the wheel to get the dog out, and this woman didn’t even stop to see what she’d done – it’s unbelievable.

“Nathan is so shaken up by the whole thing, and his 10-year-old brother had to witness it all as well.

“I just hope this lady will now come forward and do the right thing.”

Nathan cannot work due to his health and now has to pay for his dog’s veterinary bills and burial costs amounting to hundreds of pounds.

Ms Wells added: “It just doesn’t seem fair, landing him with all those costs on top of the trauma he has suffered.

“The driver’s insurance would have covered everything, had she stopped.”

A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: “Officers are investigating following a collision that took place at around 2pm on Thursday 14th June on Burley Road and involved a camper van, a pedestrian and a dog.

“The dog sustained serious injuries and was taken to the vets, where it had to be put down. The pedestrian suffered minor injuries to his hand.”

Witnesses are asked to contact Hampshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 44180222596.