Animal cruelty investigation in Blind River after kitten shot, killed

Kitten shot and killed in Blind River An animal cruelty case is underway after a kitten was shot and killed in the northern Ont. community of Blind River.

Provincial police are investigating after a seven-month-old kitten returned to its home in northern Ontario with a gunshot wound and later died.

An investigation revealed the owner let the cat out for about 15 minutes around 5:30 p.m. July 26 on River Road in the Town of Blind River and it came back with a "bloody wound in the mouth and bleeding profusely," Ontario Provincial Police said in a news release Thursday.

The owners brought the young cat to a veterinarian in Elliot Lake where the animal succumbed to its injuries.

"The X-ray determined the cat had been shot through its mouth, with the low calibre projectile exiting the chin area, penetrated the chest and became lodged causing a fatal injury," OPP said.

A low-calibre firearm is suspected to have been the weapon used.

"Anyone with any information regarding this investigation is asked to please contact the East Algoma OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Reference # E240982108," OPP said.

"Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit information online at www.saultcrimestoppers.com. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display and you will remain anonymous. You will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000."