RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — After a pit bull puppy was found dead, tied to a fire hydrant in Richmond’s East End in November of 2023, investigators have released new information and closed the case.

On Monday, Nov. 27, Richmond Animal Control and Care (RACC) was called to Rex and Corbin Streets for a report of a dead animal.

When they arrived, they found a blue brindle pit bull-mix puppy wearing a blue nylon collar, which was tied to a fire hydrant with a black nylon collar. Investigators also found a military knife with a sheath which was found next to the puppy.

The puppy’s body was covered with short, staple-like, holes and gashes.

Richmond Animal Care and Control asked the public for help after finding a dead puppy tied to a fire hydrant in a neighborhood in the city’s East End on Nov. 27, 2023. (Photo: Richmond Animal Care and Control)

In the morning on Thursday, Oct. 17, Richmond Animal Care and Control said that after the puppy was found that day, an investigator with the Richmond Police Department swabbed the dog’s leash and collar for DNA.

The authority said the samples matched that of a convicted felon in a database. After further investigation, it was found that this person was hit by a vehicle and died a few months ago.

Since then, Richmond Animal Care and Control said it has closed the case.