TAMPA, Fla. — A dog died from its injuries after it was tied to the back of a truck and dragged down a Tampa road. 

The Tampa Police Department arrested a 72-year-old man after a witness observed him driving a green Ford Truck with the dog tied to the back around 9 p.m. Wednesday on West Kennedy.

Police responded and found the dog with severe trauma. The investigation revealed Johnnie Davis, drove for about one mile with the dog dragging behind until it came loose from the leash due to the force of the turn into the parking lot of a bank.

After Davis parked, he used the ATM and left the dog behind, according to officials. 

The dog was transported to a veterinarian for emergency treatment but died from its injuries.

“The cruelty inflicted on this helpless animal is both heartbreaking and unacceptable,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Our officers acted swiftly to ensure this criminal was identified and taken into custody. We will continue to seek justice for innocent lives and hold those responsible accountable.”

Davis was arrested on Thursday at his home and booked into the Orient Road Jail. He is behind charged with aggravated cruelty to animals, police said.