3 months ago
6
The mysterious case of a stolen ute and missing dog later found dead has taken a twist, with police revealing they no longer believe the story told by the animal’s owners.
Nathan McKeown and Louise McKeown reported their ute had been stolen from Wynnum with their pet German shepherd Arnie in the back on November 8.
The duo did several high-profile media engagements including television interviews calling for the thief to return the dog, with the story attracting significant nationwide attention.
Arnie, a seven-year-old German shepherd, was sleeping in his family’s ute when it was stolen.Credit: Nathan Mckeown
“I haven’t been sleeping well,” Nathan McKeown told Nine News last week.
The vehicle was found with the seven-year-old dog dead inside on Tuesday along Amelia Street in Fortitude Valley.
Police said they had wound up their investigation, having devoted significant resources to tracking down the person who had stolen the ute.
“It has now been established that … unlawful use of motor vehicle has not occurred,” police said.
Investigators instead claimed McKeown drove the vehicle himself to Fortitude Valley just after 10.30pm on November 7, and left the vehicle on foot with the dog inside.
He allegedly told his partner the following morning the ute had been stolen, and she contacted police.
Nathan McKeown was charged with one count of breach of duty of care of an animal, and was due to appear before court next month.
Police said they did not think Louise McKeown had been dishonest, as she had believed the ute was stolen.
A Facebook page called ARNIE LOST DOG QLD, which attracted about 17,000 followers, has since been deleted.
Get alerts on significant breaking news as happens. Sign up for our Breaking News Alert.
Most Viewed in National
Loading
