Groundhog staked to railroad tracks
Sharpsburg, PA (US)

Incident Date: Thursday, Jun 23, 2011
County: Allegheny

Disposition: Open

Suspect(s) Unknown - We need your help!

Animal welfare workers are investigating a grisly cruelty case involving the deaths of two cats and a groundhog in Sharpsburg.

Humane officers at Animal Friends said the cats were found decapitated and stuffed into shopping bags earlier this week. Thursday night, officials made another gruesome discovery and said a groundhog was staked to the railroad tracks.

Investigator Kathy Hecker said the cats were discovered on Short Canal Street, one on Monday and one Tuesday. At least one of the cats was a family pet, Hecker said.

"We've gotten a number of tips and other reports of animals that have come to a bad end. We're not sure if they're related," said humane agent Kathy Hecker.

Residents have grown increasingly concerned and said they fear what may happen next.

"Im concerned about children more than the cats. If they do this to cats what are they gonna do to people?," said Caroline Karlik.

Thanks to donations, what started as a $200 reward has now topped $2,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Anyone with information is asked to call 412-847-7066.

If you have information on this case, please contact:
Animal Friends
412-847-7066

References

• « PA State Animal Cruelty Map
  « More cases in Allegheny County, PA

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