Widespread anger and grief have swept Gastouni in the western Peloponnese following a disturbing video showing a stray dog killed under the wheels of a car. The elderly dog had lived in the neighborhood for decades — known, cared for, and deeply loved by local residents as if it were part of their own families.
Video shows apparent deliberate act
The footage, captured by a security camera near the Gastouni railway station on June 18, 2026, appears to show the driver of a grey car slowing down, stopping briefly in front of the dog, then accelerating forward — driving directly over the animal before driving away as if nothing had happened. The license plate is not clearly visible, complicating efforts to identify the vehicle.
Authorities and activists launch investigation
The video has been handed over to Greek authorities, and the case has been formally reported to the Pineios Police Department. The Hellenic Police’s Animal Protection Unit has opened an investigation. Meanwhile, the Panhellenic Federation for Animal Welfare and Environmental Protection has announced a €3,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the driver — a sum that, through public donations, has reportedly grown close to €4,000.
Community mobilizes for justice
Residents, local activists, and animal welfare groups are actively sharing the video across social media platforms, urging anyone with information about the vehicle or driver to come forward. As one resident put it: “This wasn’t just a stray dog — it was a beloved member of our community for over 20 years.”