Kilmore family calls for witnesses of hit-and-run that killed their dog

By Tricia Mifsud

THE family of a dog who died after it was hit by a car near Kilmore Primary School on October 11 is calling for witnesses to come forward in the hope to identify the driver who fled the scene.

Shelley Ezard’s dog, Hollie, was hit on Kilmore-Lancefield Road near one of its 40km signs at about 2.20pm.

“She was my angel, my rock, my heart and my world is now empty without her. Hollie was not a dog she was my little girl,” she said.

Ms Ezard’s daughter, Jaimie Hooper, said a female driver, who is yet to be identified, was driving a white SUV east on Kilmore – Lancefield Road, as witnesses attempted to wave her down as they could see her vehicle approaching Hollie.

“Although this female driver allegedly did not see the man, she hit Hollie, slowed down as though she knew she hit something and then drove away at a fast rate of speed, without stopping or rendering assistance,” she said.

Hollie’s family is still shocked the incident occurred and that someone could just drive away.

“No matter what you hit, a pole, car, an animal or human, you must stop at a scene of an accident and assess the situation. Whether that be render assistance to those in need, exchange details or call the police,” Ms Hooper said.

“Not only is this incident a criminal offence but our family is in shock how could this driver leave the scene.

“So we are appealing for information regarding this incident or witnesses to contact the Kilmore police or for the driver to hand herself in and take responsibility for this incident.”

Hollie was also a much-loved member of the Blue Cross Willowmeade aged care residence where she would visit regularly to brighten the days of everyone.

Ms Hooper thanked those who assisted after the incident, and to all the people who provided support via social media. A post that Ms Hooper made on Facebook has been shared by more than 100 people, hoping the female driver would eventually identified.

“We would personally like to thank all the amazing members of the community who stopped to assist and the Kilmore veterinary clinic for their services,” she said.

“Hollie was a member of our family, an old soul and one my sister and I would joke that she was always the favourite child.

Ms Hooper said Hollie would be dearly missed by her mother and her entire family, as well as those at Blue Cross Willowmeade.

People with any information on the incident can contact Kilmore Police on 5782 1211 or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.