A man accused of embarking on a three-hour shooting spree in Northern California, resulting in the deaths of 81 animals, including miniature horses, goats, and chickens, has pleaded not guilty to charges of animal cruelty and other offenses. The suspect, a 39-year-old man, appeared in court following his arrest by Monterey County Sheriff deputies for allegedly using multiple weapons to shoot the animals housed in pens and cages in the small community of Prunedale.
The animal owners, who have chosen to remain anonymous, expressed their distress over the incident. According to Monterey County Sheriff Commander, the scene was described as traumatic as the animals were beloved pets of the community members. Among the animals killed were 14 goats, nine chickens, seven ducks, five rabbits, a guinea pig, and 33 parakeets and cockatiels. Additionally, a pony named Lucky and two miniature horses named Estrella and Princessa were among the casualties.
While some animals survived the shooting, they had to be euthanized due to the severity of their injuries. The suspect resided in a camper near the lot where the animals were kept, and authorities are still investigating the motive behind the heinous act.
The shooting incident, which began in the early hours of the morning, prompted multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in Prunedale. Law enforcement officers responded to the scene and initiated a shelter-in-place order for the surrounding area. The suspect was apprehended without resistance, and a search of his camper revealed several firearms, including an illegal assault weapon and two ghost guns, along with a substantial amount of ammunition.
The suspect faces numerous charges, including animal cruelty, firearm-related offenses, drug possession, vandalism, and making criminal threats. The Chief Assistant District Attorney described the case as one of the most horrific instances of animal cruelty in the county's history. The suspect's defense attorney has raised concerns about his mental state, leading the judge to order a mental evaluation.
The court will await the results of the mental assessment in the coming weeks as the suspect remains in custody on a $1 million bail. The community is left reeling from the senseless violence inflicted upon innocent animals, and authorities are working to ensure justice is served in this disturbing case.
