Updated 5.30pm 

A pedestrian was seriously injured and his dog was killed in a hit-and-run incident on the Marsascala bypass this afternoon.

The police said the incident happened on Triq Villabate, Żabbar, around 2.15pm when the driver appeared to have lost control of his vehicle, and mounted the pavement, hitting the two in the process. The driver allegedly drove off right after the incident, leaving the man and the dog lying on the ground. 

The 41-year-old pedestrian from Żejtun was taken to Mater Dei Hospital in an ambulance. The police said he was grievously injured but it is not yet known if his injuries are life threatening.

An animal ambulance was also on scene to tend to the dog but it was too late.

Later this afternoon, the police said it had identified the suspect and thanked the public for its help. His car was found parked in Cospicua.

Meanwhile, the police are still investigating. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered.