Cat doused in gasoline, set on fire - Peace River, AB

Sunday, Jul 27, 2008

RCMP in Peace River are investigating an incident in which a small animal was doused in gasoline and set on fire.

The remains of what appears to be a cat were found early Sunday morning, police said, on a path that runs adjacent to River Road in Peace River, which is about 500 kilometres north of Edmonton.

Citizens reported hearing a small explosion at about 4 a.m, and a witness looked out to see a ball of flames on the pathway, police said in a news release.

The RCMP officers who went to the scene contacted the SPCA, which confirmed that it was in fact a small dog or cat that had been doused in gasoline and set on fire.

It is not known whether the small animal was alive or dead before being set ablaze, police said.

This is the first reported incident of animal cruelty in Peace River in recent memory, police said.

Police said that those responsible might have spilled gas on their clothing. They are asking for the public's help in finding those responsible.

Local police are asking anyone with information on this or any other crime to contact the RCMP detachment at 780-624-6677 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

If you have information on this case, please contact:
Crimestoppers
1-800-222-TIPS

References

• CBC - July 30, 2008

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