A DOG owner was shocked and upset after witnessing a savage attack that killed his pet.

Police are appealing for information to find the owner of a Staffordshire terrier involved in the fatal attack in Westlands Park, near Savernake Road, Chelmsford, at about 6am on Monday, October 24.

A 72-year-year old man was walking his Jack Russell when it was attacked and repeatedly bitten by a dark coloured Staffordshire Terrier which was not on a lead.

The Jack Russell was taken to an emergency vets but died later from its injuries.

Investigating officer PC Matt Dalby said: “This was an appalling incident and a terrible shock for the elderly man.

“He walks with crutches and had his dog on a lead when it was attacked. It had no chance against the Staffordshire.

“The man was extremely upset because he had been extremely fond of the dog.”

PC Dalby now wants to trace a woman, believed to be in her 30s, who pulled the Staffordshire terrier away, put it on a lead and left the scene without leaving any contact details.

The woman walked away along Writtle Road towards Waterhouse Lane.

Anyone with information should contact Pc Dalby at Chelmsford police station on 101, or 0300 333 4444 if calling from outside Essex. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.