A street robber killed his victim's dog when he pushed her over onto the poor animal as he wrestled with her husband.
The West Area Command Unit, which covers the areas of Ealing, Hounslow and Hillingdon in London are appealing for information to find the assailant.
The woman, 36, and her 56-year-old husband were walking their dogs in Westminster, central London, when they were approached by a man pushing a bike along the footpath.
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The Norfolk Terrier named Rufus was crushed after the woman was violently shoved to the ground as she tried to pull the mugger off her husband.
The robber wore a face covering and gloves. He stopped the pair before pulling a watch from the man's arm, causing scratches on his forearm.
The man and the robber began to struggle and it was at this point when his wife tried to pull the mugger away during the attack which led to poor Rufus' death. The incident happened Spanish Place at 4.15pm on 4th August.
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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 bid farewell 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.
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"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."
Featured Image Credit: SWNSTopics: Dog, Life News, News, Life, Animals