(Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
A former FedEx driver is facing charges for allegedly stealing a French bulldog that later died in his truck.
According to PEOPLE, this incident reportedly occurred while the ex-driver, Kimani Joehon Marshall, was on a delivery route in Harnett County, North Carolina. Authorities allege Marshall saw the tan and white French bulldog roaming the neighborhood during his route.
The outlet confirmed that Kimani Marshall took the estimated $5,500 French bulldog on July 3 and left it in his truck.
Per WTVM 9, the dog Tori was later found dead in the hot FedEx truck on July 10 in Lillington, North Carolina. Investigators believe that Tori died of heatstroke due to the high temperatures in Kimani Marshall’s truck.
Accuweather reported that temperatures in Lillington, North Carolina, reached 90 degrees on July 3.
As of July 22, Kimani Marshall faces charges of dog theft, stolen goods, and animal cruelty. According to the online docket, he posted his $50,000 bond on that same day as his arrest. Furthermore, his disposition hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on September 3.
The New York Post reveals that Kimani Marshall actually knew Tori’s owners. He reportedly previously asked if he could breed her with his dog, but they declined.
Tori’s owner, Lori Hartman Kemmerer, said she escaped between 6 and 9:30 p.m. because her door was mistakenly left open. Tori was later seen running on US 421 N toward Lillington.
Lori updated her Facebook friends about Tori through a series of posts. On July 4, she shared her heartbreak as they continued searching for her beloved dog and even offered an award for her recovery.
“We have searched all over and cannot find her. We are heartbroken to say the least. Tori will never survive being out in the heat,” Lori wrote.
In another Facebook post, Lori also shared that Tori was a ribbon-winning show dog.
“Not only was she amazing in the show ring, which she loved every second, she loved everyone she met. Most of all, she loved me unconditionally. Please hold your babies close,” Tori added.
FedEx has sent their condolences to Tori’s family and issued a heartfelt statement about her to ABC11. The popular company also confirmed that Kimani Marshall is no longer an employee.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family on the loss of their beloved pet. We understand the importance of people’s pets in their lives and deeply regret the pain that this has caused. The driver is no longer providing service on behalf of FedEx.”
