Karmactive Staff
A dog named Midnight endured freezing winds while riding unsecured in an open trailer on an Indiana highway this February. The wind chill hit 17 degrees that day. The dog’s owner now faces criminal charges.
Ryan Jackson spotted the unusual sight near Calumet Avenue in Hammond, Indiana around 11:45 a.m. that Tuesday. A black SUV pulled a trailer carrying a shivering dog in an unsecured crate on Interstate 80/94. “I thought ‘man this is crazy,'” Jackson said. He recorded the incident, which helped police track down the dog and owner.
The owner, Erik McClinton, 37, told police he had puppies in his SUV. That’s why he put Midnight in the trailer. He claimed he covered the crate with a blanket that blew away. Police found this wasn’t true. They also discovered the crate wasn’t properly secured. A loose tow strap even created sparks as it dragged on the highway.
When police found Midnight in Gary, Indiana, the dog showed clear signs of neglect. Officers noted dried blood on his head, a partially missing ear, and visible ribs. An off-duty K9 handler used treats to safely approach the distressed animal.
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Exposure to extreme cold and wind can pose serious health risks to dogs, especially when they’re unprotected in moving vehicles. Such conditions can be particularly dangerous on highways where wind speeds are intensified.
Midnight was initially taken to the Hobart Humane Society and then transported to Gary Animal Control. Currently, Midnight lives with a foster family. He’ll stay there until the court case ends.
McClinton faces a misdemeanor animal cruelty charge. He also claimed he had permission to leave the dog at the home of a man named Joe, but police found this wasn’t true. The case highlights how one person’s phone call can save an animal’s life. Many community members have already offered to adopt Midnight.
The Indiana State Police Lowell Post has acknowledged the public’s support, stating: “While we truly appreciate this outpouring of support, if he is put up for adoption it wouldn’t be for some time.” The court must first resolve the case.
