A disturbing scene on Old Hickory Boulevard has Metro Nashville police investigating after a witness reported seeing a dog dragged behind a vehicle on the 6000 block of the roadway Tuesday. The witness tailed the vehicle while calling 911, snapped a clear photo of the license plate, and later scooped up the dog after its leash reportedly snapped. The animal was taken for treatment, and the witness says they hope to adopt the dog. Officers searched the surrounding area but were not able to track down the vehicle.
Police response
The Metro Nashville Police Department says officers were dispatched to the 6000 block of Old Hickory Boulevard after the report came in. The witness described the suspect vehicle as a black Ford Explorer, according to WSMV. While staying on the line with 911, the witness followed the SUV and was able to photograph the license plate, which police say is registered to a Ford Explorer. The driver was described as an older man. Despite canvassing the area, officers did not locate the vehicle.
What the law says
Under Tennessee law, intentionally causing serious physical injury to a companion animal can be prosecuted as aggravated cruelty, a Class E felony, according to the Tennessee Code. Lesser acts of cruelty can be charged as misdemeanors, and convictions may bring fines and restrictions on owning animals, per FindLaw. Prosecutors typically weigh the extent of the animal's injuries, witness statements, and any photo or video evidence when deciding whether to pursue felony charges.
Not the only report
This case is not the only recent allegation of a dog being dragged by a vehicle in Middle Tennessee. In May, a Rutherford County incident drew broad attention after a pickup truck allegedly dragged a dog for roughly 600 yards, and the animal later died. Investigators in that case released surveillance images of the truck and appealed publicly for tips, as reported by WSMV. That earlier investigation highlighted how bystander photos and video can be crucial in tracking suspect vehicles.
How to help
Anyone who witnessed the Old Hickory incident or has information about the vehicle involved is urged to contact Metro police. For non-emergencies, residents can call 615-862-8600 or submit a report online through the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department services page, which lists reporting options and tip instructions.
At this writing, the dog's long-term condition and whether any charges will be filed remain uncertain as investigators follow up on leads. The witness's photo of the license plate and willingness to care for the animal could help detectives identify the vehicle and determine what, if any, criminal charges are appropriate.
