Fears cat killer targeting family pets

VILLAGERS fear a cat killer is targeting family pets in the Culcheth area of Warrington, following the disappearance of four cats in the past couple of weeks, with a total of 10 being shot or disappearing so far this year.
In March this year a Bengal kitten from the Derwent Road area of Culcheth, was shot and killed by an air rifle pellet and found dead in a neighbour’s garden in nearby Severn Road.
Then in April a cat from the Shaw Street area was shot and injured by a pellet specifically designed for hunting and efficiently killing small animals.
There have been other shooting incidents in the area spanning a 10 year-period and now with four cats disappearing in the past fortnight residents fear the cat killer is increasing activity.
Local resident Michaela Simpson, whose own pet Nelson (pictured above) has been missing for two weeks said: “Someone must be behind the missing presumed dead cats, so if more people are aware of what has been going on, then perhaps someone will see or notice something unusual and report it.
“The police have been made aware, but without evidence cannot follow up on any suspicions.
“There are two cats missing from Derwent, one from Bent a Lane and our cat from Medway. Only a few months ago a cat was shot on Derwent and another taken to the vets, also after being shot.
“It’s horrendous that this is happening to much loved pets and it’s causing significant upset and distress,” added Michaela.
Local Cllr Chris Vobe said: “I have spoken with a number of residents in the Newchurch area about this issue.
“It is very distressing for pet owners to learn that these shootings have been taking place, but we urge people to remain vigilant and report any matters of concern to local police.”

Tibby who went missing from Bollin Close in March