The SPCA believes the animal found mutilated in a vacant lot is a bobcat.
A hunter claimed responsibility for the mutilated body of an animal found inside an empty lot in the Brewerytown section of the city, according to investigators.
A man walking his dog discovered the animal in a vacant lot on 30th Street and Jefferson on Sunday. The body had been placed inside a bag and dumped behind a mound of dirt.
According to officials, the dead animal’s skin, paws and ears were removed. They also say the instruments used to mutilate the animal along with its paws were found in a blanket in the same lot.
Due to the extent of the mutilation, officers were unable to determine the species of the animal.
"This is an utmost heinous crime," said Director of Humane Law Enforcement George Bengal. "We are working hard to uncover the facts and locate the offender."
Forensic veterinarians examined the body. At this point, officials believe the animal is a large, non-domesticated feline, possibly a bobcat.
Monday morning, a man who claimed to be a licensed hunter, called the PSPCA and identified himself as the person responsible for the carcass, according to investigators. Officials say the man claimed he was a licensed hunter who shot and killed the animal last month on a hunting trip. The man told investigators he skinned the animal while performing a taxidermy, according to investigators.
Local
Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood.
Officials did not reveal the man's reasons for leaving the animal in the lot however. Police continue to investigate.
If you have any information on this incident, please call the SPCA at 267-315-0237.
