Police are “keeping an open mind” regarding potential connections between a series of incidents involving the dumping of dead animals in Hampshire.
Approximately 50 deceased hares, along with a barn owl and a kestrel, were discovered outside Broughton Community Shop in Stockbridge last Friday. This occurrence follows a similar event outside Awbridge Primary School in February.
In November of 2023, forty animal carcasses were found dumped near Stockbridge, including pheasants, chickens, and hares. Twenty-five animal carcasses were also discarded in the vicinity of Awbridge Primary School, just outside Romsey.
The incident near Stockbridge was suspected to be linked to hare coursing activities.
Authorities have disclosed that there are presently no active leads in either case, with both incidents being categorized as pending until further information surfaces.
Volunteers from Broughton Community Shop were the ones who stumbled upon the scattered animals outside their premises. Over the weekend, investigators uncovered a burnt-out Suzuki Grand Vitara believed to be associated with the crime.
The circulation of images depicting the scene on social media prompted a public outcry.
Mike Hensman, the shop’s treasurer, described the ordeal as “devastating” for the staff. Renowned conservationist Chris Packham characterized the incident as “horrific on so many levels,” while wildlife TV presenter Megan McCubbin, Packham’s stepdaughter, condemned the act as “heart-breaking” and “barbaric.”
During an interview with BBC Radio Solent, McCubbin empathized with the victims, drawing from her own experience of having dead animals left outside her residence.
