Emmerdale viewers are convinced that twisted Tom King is set to kill another beloved Dingle pet, after he murdered Belle’s dog, Piper, on the ITV soap last week

*Warning: This article contains details of domestic and animal abuse that some readers may find distressing.

Emmerdale viewers are convinced that Tom King is set to commit another murder after he killed Belle Dingle’s beloved dog, Piper.

Fans will recall how Tom (played by James Chase) has been tormenting and manipulating his wife Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper) for a long time. However, Belle recently managed to break free from him and told Tom their marriage was over.

But, the evil Tom sunk to new lows last week when he deliberately ran over Belle’s treasured pet, Piper. After spotting innocent Piper in the road, Tom intentionally drove his car towards her.

In the final scenes of the episode, a frantic Tom was seen rushing back to the village with Piper wrapped in a blanket, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Pretending to be worried about the dog he had just hit, he bumped into Belle who was leaving the pub. He then shouted at her, promising to do everything possible to save Piper.

However, during Monday’s episode (August 19), Tom ended up giving Piper a fatal injection. Just before this, a tearful Belle said goodbye to her much-loved pet who lay on a vet’s bed.

The wicked Tom then prepared the injection that would ultimately end Piper’s life. Later, it became clear that Belle had seen through Tom’s act and accused him of causing Piper’s injuries.

Emmerdale fans are aghast at Tom’s cruel ways and worried he might be gearing up for another kill, with the Dingles’ beloved pooch Monty firmly in his crosshairs.

In an Emmerdale Facebook fan group, tensions were high as one user questioned: “Are there any pets in Emmerdale left? Or has he killed them all off?”

One keen fan chimed in saying: “Apart from Kim’s horses, there’s only Monty I can think of, wouldn’t surprise me though – if it meant getting an ounce of control over Belle.”

Another fan weighed into the discussion stating: “I could see this happening tbh,” and another lamented: “Oh no I hope not, but this is Emmerdale.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm