Video showing police officer shooting injured skunk sparks debate in Bridgeport
Police said the incident was "a clear and legal act of mercy meant to prevent further suffering."
Four days after a Bridgeport police officer is seen on camera shooting a gravely wounded skunk at Cedar and Pembroke Streets, the public remains divided on the issue.
"This happened back on Friday, but here we are arguing about it days later -- and I think that shows how invested people are in what happens in their community," said Monique Jones.
Kurt Erickson -- a community activist who heads up a watchdog group he founded called Citizens Opposed to Police States (COPS) -- says the incident left him "disgusted by the choice this officer made."
"One thing I don't want to have to worry about -- as a father and as a member of this community -- is a bullet coming through my window from a Bridgeport police officer," Erickson said. "It's not OK, and somebody needs to grab the bull by the horns, stand up and say, 'Hey, clearly we got this wrong. It was the wrong call."
But police said the incident was "a clear and legal act of mercy meant to prevent further suffering."
The department issued the following statement:
"The Bridgeport Police Department is aware of a video circulating on social media involving an officer who euthanized an injured skunk. We understand that witnessing any animal in distress can be upsetting, and we want to provide clarity about the circumstances and the department's responsibilities in these situations.
On March 20, 2026, officers responded to a call regarding a skunk that had been severely injured and was unable to move from the roadway. Upon arrival, officers observed that the animal's injuries were catastrophic and incompatible with recovery. Animal Control advised that, based off the skunk's condition of being severely injured/rabid, the skunk would need to be dispatched.
In accordance with state law and department policy 3.01 section G7, officers are authorized to humanely euthanize severely injured wildlife when no reasonable alternative exists. This action is taken only after careful assessment and with the sole intent of preventing further suffering to the animal and ensuring public safety at the scene.
We recognize that these situations are difficult for everyone involved. The department remains committed to transparency, humane treatment of animals, and adherence to all legal and ethical standards. We appreciate the community's concern and encourage anyone with questions to contact us directly for further information."
