Police hunting rabbit killer after pet was found dead in a back garden in Hampshire

Hedge End police reported the hare was ‘intentionally’ killed by an ‘unknown person’.

The body of the rabbit was discovered in its run in a back garden.

Police report the incident occurred on Monday in Providence Hill, Bursledon, between 12.45pm and 2.30pm.

Officers are in the early stages of their investigation, and are appealing for more information.

A statement from Hedge End police said: ‘I'm sorry to report that on March 7, we had a report of an unknown person intentionally killing a pet rabbit whilst in its run in a back garden.

‘At this time we are in the early stages of our investigation.

‘The incident happened on Providence Hill in Bursledon between 12.45pm and 2.30pm.

‘If you believe you saw any suspicious individuals who may have been looking into gardens, climbing walls or fences or just generally acting strange, please get in touch.

‘With the weather (slowly) starting to improve I'm sure pet owners will be leaving their animals outside more often.

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‘Just a reminder to keep them safe and secure and report any suspicious incidents to your local Police either on 101 or online.’

In a follow-up statement, a spokesman from Hampshire Constabulary said: ‘Our enquiries into the incident remain ongoing at this time to establish the exact circumstances.

‘We are asking if anyone saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the incident to report this to us via 101, quoting 44220092244.’

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