Appeal after dog dies following collision with van in Lochaber

Officers in Lochaber are appealing to the public for information regarding a hit and run collision involving a child and a dog on the A830.

The incident happened on Saturday, 8 July between 9.30am and 9.35am on the Fort William to Mallaig road near the junction with the A861.

A white van travelling west on the A830 struck a dog which was being walked on a lead at the side of the road. The animal died at the scene.

The vehicle also made contact with a child, who was uninjured.

The van, which failed to stop, is described as being possibly a Vauxhall with badly rusted rear doors. It turned off the A830 onto the A861 immediately after the collision.

Sergeant Katy Duncan of Fort William Police Station said: “Sadly the dog did not survive its injuries. The child was fortunately uninjured but the consequences of this collision could have been far more severe.

“We are asking anybody who may have witnessed this incident to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1573 of 8 July, 2023.

“Police are also appealing to motorists who were in the area at this time to check any dashcam footage they may have.

“Alternatively please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”