Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

US man arrested after setting ex-girlfriend's dog on fire following argument

The seven-month-old Chihuahua mix was treated by vets and is said to be 'in good spirits'

Henry Austin
Wednesday 17 June 2015 01:24 BST
Comments
Seven-month-old Chihuahua mix, Cocoa
Seven-month-old Chihuahua mix, Cocoa

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

A jilted ex-boyfriend poured lighter fluid onto his former lover’s dog and set fire to it after an argument, police said.

“She was screaming and hollering,” said Dominque Clark, about her seven-month-old Chihuahua mix, Cocoa. “I have leaves in my backyard and I kind of heard her when she rushed into the leaves trying to put herself out.”

She used some of her clothing to smother the flames after the puppy was scratching and crying at the door of her home in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

After animal control officers took Cocoa to a nearby veterinary clinic she was treated for burns to the body and face.

“She's in good spirits,” vet, Dr Sarah Morgan told the WRAL TV station. “She's already stolen the hearts of everyone here.“

Police arrested 23-year-old James Quick, who they said had once dated Clark and sent her threatening text messages after they split up.

Arrested on outstanding warrants for possession of firearm by a felon and discharging a weapon within city limits, they added charges of animal cruelty and burning of personal property.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in