Spokane County – A disturbing discovery at Rockwood Vista Reservoir in the South Perry District has residents on edge. Amanda McFarland, a daily park visitor, found a dead cat one day and a second, similarly mutilated cat the next morning in the same location.
Details of the incidents
McFarland, who walks the park with her dogs, said the first cat was already dead when she saw it. When she returned on Friday to check the area, she found another cat with the same type of injuries. “So, yeah, it’s horrifying. We are kind of afraid,” she told reporters.
She promptly brought the animal to the Spokane County Animal Rescue and Protection Services (SCRAPS) for examination and filed a police report, fearing the incidents could be part of a larger pattern rather than isolated events.
Official response
Ronnie Schlabs, Regional Director of SCRAPS, advised residents to keep pets at home while the investigation continues. “We don’t want to get too far ahead of ourselves, but it does not appear that this was a normal predatory action just by the state of the remains,” Schlabs said.
He added that cases like this are rare and urged anyone who sees suspicious animal injuries to contact SCRAPS right away. “We want to ensure the owner can be notified and to see if there is a greater pattern,” Schlabs explained.
Legal consequences
Under Washington law, animal mutilation is classified as cruelty in the first degree, carrying a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Pathology work is pending to determine the exact cause of the cats’ injuries.
How residents can help
McFarland emphasized the importance of community vigilance. “If people see something that could be more than just a coyote, honestly take pictures, gather the animal, put it in a container or bag, bring it to SCRAPS, and then see if there is a greater pattern,” she said.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call SCRAPS at 509‑477‑2532 or email [email protected]. Prompt reporting can help authorities intervene before any potential perpetrator continues harmful behavior.
What to expect next
The case remains under investigation. SCRAPS will conduct pathology tests to confirm the cause of death and determine whether the incidents are linked. Residents are asked to remain vigilant and report any further animal injuries to aid the ongoing inquiry.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
