Dog stolen on Welsh trail found dead on railway line as police launch probe

Police have launched an investigation after a dog was allegedly stolen during a walk and later found dead on a railway line in the Cynon Valley.

The 12-year-old Cairn Terrier-type, named Zak, had been out with owner Janet Collins’ son, Ryan, along the Taff Trail between Mountain Ash and Penrhiwceiber when the incident is said to have taken place.

According to reports, three youths approached the pair before grabbing the dog’s lead and running off. Ryan has been described as a vulnerable adult.

A large-scale search effort was quickly organised, with family members, friends and members of the local community combing the trail in an attempt to locate Zak.

Susan Grandon, a family friend who helped coordinate the search, claimed the dog was later left on a railway track, where he was struck and killed by a passing train.

News of the incident spread rapidly online, with the hashtag Justice4Zak gaining traction on Facebook as residents shared messages of support and changed profile pictures in tribute.

Janet Collins and her son have asked for privacy as they come to terms with the loss.

A spokesperson for South Wales Police said:

"On Saturday, April 18, South Wales Police received a report of a dog being stolen from its owner in Penrhiwceiber, Mountain Ash. We have since learnt that Zak the dog was sadly found dead the following day. An investigation into the incident is ongoing."

Image: Susan Grandon