Horrific Hedgehog Attack Shocks Kent Community
Police and locals are hunting a gang of youths after a hedgehog was brutally kicked along a street in a sickening attack.
Brutal Beast Bash Near Cordingham Close
The horrifying incident happened at 11.30pm on Friday, 4 July near the junction of Cordingham Close and McDonald Parade. Witnesses saw a healthy hedgehog wandering the road before a group of young men repeatedly kicked it, sending the poor creature flying an estimated 200 yards along the street.
Wildlife Hero’s Rescue Too Late
A third witness dashed out to save the animal and rushed it to a local wildlife rehabilitator. Despite urgent care, the hedgehog died shortly after arriving.
Post-Mortem Reveals Terrifying Injuries
A post-mortem showed the hedgehog suffered catastrophic injuries: broken spines, severe brain and ear trauma, fractured ribs, a punctured lung, muscle damage, torn liver, and a ripped abdominal wall. The cause of death was massive blood loss from the liver wound caused by the brutal kicks.
Police Stumped by Grainy CCTV
Kent Police recovered CCTV footage from just before the attack but the images are poor quality, and no suspects have been identified. Detectives say limits on resources mean further investigation into wildlife cases isn’t prioritised.
Wildlife Carer Pleads for Info
“This was a vicious and sustained attack that caused immense suffering before this animal died. Someone must know who these boys or men are. Even if the CCTV is grainy, people who know them will recognise how they look and sound,” the wildlife carer said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Kent Police on 101, quoting the incident details, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
