Royal Palm Beach – A local family is urging authorities to identify a suspected serial animal shooter after their cat, Dixie, was found with a gunshot wound to the shoulder. The incident adds to growing concerns in Palm Beach County following two recent cat shootings captured on video.
What happened to Dixie
Three weeks ago, Ania Powers noticed her cat, Dixie, having difficulty walking. A visit to the veterinarian revealed an unexpected injury: X‑ray images showed a bullet lodged in the cat’s shoulder. “The vet was like, ‘That’s weird. We don’t know what happened,’” Powers recalled. Dixie required immediate surgery to remove the projectile and treat the wound.
“I was pretty much shocked. Like why? What needs to go through your head to do something like this?” Powers said, expressing both grief and anger at the senseless act.
Similar case in Jupiter
Earlier this month, staff at Furry Friends animal shelter in Jupiter reported a second cat, Zoe, whose front left leg was amputated after being shot. Investigators released security‑camera footage from an alley near the Sunshine Flea Market in West Palm Beach that appears to show a man firing a gun at the animal. Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office officials believe the same individual may be responsible for multiple attacks on cats throughout the area.
Law‑enforcement response
County officials have launched a dedicated investigation to locate the shooter. The sheriff’s office is reviewing additional video from nearby neighborhoods and urging anyone with information to come forward. To encourage tips, Furry Friends has increased the reward for information leading to an arrest to $10,000.
“We just want to look this person in the eye and ask, ‘Dude, what’s in your head? Walk me through what’s in your brain. Why?’” Powers said, emphasizing the need for accountability.
Community reaction
Neighbors and animal‑rights groups have expressed outrage, calling for stronger penalties for animal cruelty. While the investigation remains ongoing, residents are being reminded to keep an eye on suspicious activity and report any unusual sounds or sightings to the sheriff’s office.
Authorities stress that any lead, no matter how small, could be crucial in ending what appears to be a pattern of targeted attacks on pets. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at the phone number listed on its website.
How to help
If you have witnessed any suspicious behavior, heard gunshots, or have video that might aid the investigation, please contact the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office immediately. Your cooperation could help protect other animals and bring the perpetrator to justice.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
