A dog has died after being deliberately run over by police.

The animal, a foxhound, was killed after it was knocked down by a police car on the A55 in Conwy, Wales.

It was running between traffic on the road shortly after 3am on Monday between the Llanfairfechan roundabout and the Conwy tunnel.

North Wales Police said officers were not able to bring the dog under control and decided the “only safe option” was to run it over.

An officer had tried to secure the dog but was bitten and it escaped.

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The dog that was killed (not pictured) was a foxhound like this one

A car and a HGV lorry had to swerve to avoid the animal while officers stood on the carriageway.

Chief Inspector Darren Wareing said: “Despite several attempts to catch the dog, it continued to run in and out of traffic.

“At one point an officer tried to take hold of the dog but was then bitten.

“Further attempts were made to catch the dog, which was by now running in the middle of an unlit carriageway with approaching traffic having to take avoiding action at speeds in excess of 70mph.

“One car and a HGV had to swerve to avoid the dog whilst the officers remained on foot in the carriageway.

“The potential for a serious collision was present throughout, and in the circumstances there was no alternative way that officers could contain the dog and minimise risks to motorists.

“The only safe option was to run the dog over at sufficient speed to ensure that it was destroyed and would not suffer.

“Other methods of destruction were considered, but were ruled out on the grounds of public safety.

“Both officers have their own dogs and did not take this decision lightly. Due to the seriousness of the incident it needed bringing to a conclusion quickly for the safety of all concerned.”

(Pictures: Rex)