Exclusive: Disturbing video of dog attacking opossum in Baychester sparks animal cruelty investigation
The incident happened Monday morning on Grace Avenue in Baychester, police said. The video, recorded by a nearby resident, shows the dog repeatedly attacking the animal as the owner appears to watch.
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A disturbing video circulating online is raising serious concerns in the Bronx, after a dog was seen attacking what appears to be an opossum while its owner stood nearby.
The incident happened Monday morning on Grace Avenue in Baychester, police said.
The video, recorded by a nearby resident, shows the dog repeatedly attacking the animal as the owner appears to watch.
“It was one of the most horrific things I’ve ever seen in my life,” said Janelle Alexandria, who filmed the encounter.
Alexandria says she was feeding stray cats at her nearby animal sanctuary, Melody’s Garden, when she witnessed the attack across the street.
“It was so horrible to watch… I wrestle with myself because I feel like I could have done more,” she said.
She told News 12 she considered stepping in but feared for her own safety and instead recorded the incident from a distance.
Alexandria later found the opossum still alive but severely injured. She brought the animal to an animal hospital, where it later died.
“We’re gonna get you help,” she can be heard saying in the video.
She posted the footage to social media, which quickly drew attention from authorities.
The NYPD, ASPCA and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation all confirmed they are investigating the incident as a possible case of animal cruelty.
Alexandria also told investigators she is concerned about the condition of other dogs she believes belong to the same owner.
“They don ’t look well at all… they look very thin. I can see their ribs,” she said.
Police say they are questioning the dog’s owner as the investigation continues.
It remains unclear how many animals may be involved.
