A man is facing criminal charges for allegedly severely beating a dog on a highway off-ramp near Toronto Monday night.

According to Global News, Durham Regional Police said they responded to Highway 401 ramp in Bowmanville following reports that a man was assaulting a golden retriever on the side of the road. Police said bystanders attempted to separate the dog from the man but the attack continued.

The dog was taken to an emergency animal hospital with life-threatening injuries—and police said things aren’t “looking positive,” the news station reported.

Meanwhile, man, identified as Jonathan Dunbar, 23, was arrested and charged with animal cruelty. Police believe Dunbar is the dog’s owner.

Insauga reported that he was released from custody following a promise to appear in court.

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