HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – Animal lovers around the world fell in love with Ollie. They had hoped the 1-year-old pitbull would survive a savage beating, being stabbed 50 times and left for dead inside a blue suitcase in Hollywood. He died Thursday night.
The focus shifted on catching his killer. There is a $15,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Broward Crime Stoppers was offering a $10,000 reward, and The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals was offering $5,000.
Dr. Nicole Patterson, a veterinarian at Hollywood Animal Hospital, knew Ollie had supporters from all over the world, who were heartbroken when they learned how a couple found him Tuesday. She said Ollie's body could not overcome the inflammation and damage.
"It's definitely a big shock to everybody," Patterson said.
The Grateful Paws Dog & Cat Rescue started a GoFundMe page, and animal lovers worldwide raised about $35,000 to support his treatment. Jan Milbyer said she was devastated when she learned of his death. She said the money will go to pay Ollie's $10,000 vet bill and help other animals in need.
"Whoever did this to that poor animal, I hope they find them," Randie Cohn said. "I would have adopted him myself. I said to my husband, 'Can we take Ollie?' And he said, 'Well, let's see how he does.' And I am very sorry that happened to him."
Detectives were asking anyone with information to call the Hollywood Police Department at 954-967-4411 or Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477. The culprit could face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.