Crime & Safety
Watsonville Cat Shootings; PETA Offers $5K Reward
Multiple cats have been shot with BB guns at a Watsonville apartment complex. One cat has died and another has been injured.
WATSONVILLE, CA — PETA is offering a reward up to $5,000 for anyone who has information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person who has shot multiple cats with a BB gun.
The incidents have been reported at an apartment at 327 and 331 E. Beach St., PETA announced.
One cat has died as a result of their injuries. Another was injured earlier this year but has recovered.
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“Whoever shot these cats must be stopped before more animals endure the same hideous fate,” PETA Vice President Colleen O’Brien said in a statement. “PETA urges anyone with information to come forward immediately, and we recommend always keeping cats safe indoors.”
The Watsonville Police Department has been unable to track down a suspect through its investigation.
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Free-roaming cats are considered to be pests by some, according to PETA. Cats can be happy inside and should be under human supervision when venturing outdoors, PETA said.
Angry neighbors have mutilated, drowned and beaten free-roaming cats. They've also been set on fire, used as bait or used in ritual sacrifice, PETA said.
Anyone with information should contact the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter at 831-454-7200.
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