Community mourning after local dog Leo fatally struck by car, shot in Batchelor

A much-loved Territory dog named Leo has died in shocking circumstances, leaving his owner and the community devastated.

Leo (a Pitbull X Staffy). Picture: Wayne Dawson / Supplied

The Batchelor community is reeling after well-loved local dog Leo was struck by a car and then shot by another man who stopped at the scene.

Leo, a nine-year-old pit bull-staffy cross, had been a familiar and friendly presence in the town, especially among children.

Though he belonged to Wayne Dawson, housing restrictions meant he lived with Mr Dawson’s mother and her partner, who cared for him well.

Leo was known to wander, but always found his way home, often with the help of locals.

Wayne Dawson and his dog (a Pitbull X Staffy named Leo). Picture: Wayne Dawson / Supplied

That trust was shattered on Sunday afternoon when Leo was hit by a car.

In the moments that followed, another vehicle arrived, and a man stepped out with a loaded pistol holstered at his hip.

Without hesitation, he drew his weapon, took aim, and shot Leo in the head.

Mr Dawson was first informed of the incident by his mother after she was told by some local workers who had rushed from the scene that Leo had been hit by a car.

When Mr Dawson arrived at the scene, unable to face the sight of his beloved dog’s body, he had to rely on a police officer to confirm Leo’s identity.

“I couldn’t look at the body,” he said. “I just couldn’t.”

Wayne Dawson and his dog (a Pitbull X Staffy named Leo). Picture: Wayne Dawson / Supplied.

Leo (a Pitbull X Staffy). Picture: Wayne Dawson / Supplied

Police called him on Tuesday afternoon to provide an update on their investigation.

The grief of losing Leo left Mr Dawson feeling “overwhelmed”.

“It’s like losing a family member,” Mr Dawson said.

“Leo was well known and a beloved visitor at the local school … kids loved him. People knew where he lived and who he belonged to.”

The nature of Leo’s death has left the community shaken.

“He was shot in the head before any medical assessment and possible treatment could be given to save his life,” Mr Dawson said.

Leo (a Pitbull X Staffy). Picture: Wayne Dawson / Supplied

The police are still investigating, with plans to remove the bullet and conduct X-rays to determine the full extent of Leo’s injuries before he was shot.

“The man took it upon himself to make the decision to end Leo’s life, without any consent from the owner or carer,” Mr Dawson said.

NT Police are investigating.