Driver seen hurling endangered tortoise out of car window
Animal named Mr Roadrunner by rescuers in recognition of its dramatic ordeal
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.The RSPCA has launched an investigation after a driver was seen hurling a tortoise out of a car window.
A delivery driver rescued the Horsfield's tortoise, an endangered species, after seeing the animal being thrown onto the roadside while driving along Ashbourne Road in Stock-on-Trent.
He pulled over to check if the animal had been injured.
RSPCA inspector Charlotte Melvin said: "This poor tortoise was lying on the side of the road, so the driver picked him up and took him to the nearest vet.
"The vet had concerns about the welfare of the tortoise and the cruel manner in which he'd been abandoned so called us in."
The tortoise has been named Mr Roadrunner in recognition of its dramatic ordeal and the RSPCA, which is now caring for it, said it was "doing quite well".
If no one comes forward to claim Mr Roadrunner, Inspector Melvin said the RSPCA would be looking "for a new loving home" for it.
The RSPCA has launched an investigation into the incident and is looking for the person responsible.
"I'm now investigating who was responsible for discarding him in such a cruel way," said Mr Melvin.
"I'd like to hear from anyone who may know where he has come from or saw anything suspicious in the area on Tuesday afternoon to get in touch with us."
Anyone with information which may help the investigation should call the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and leave a message for Inspector Melvin.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments