Several shots were fired at a home last Thursday night as a mother and her children were sleeping. The following night, two horses were killed and another was shot three times at a farm eight miles away.
A Shetland pony and a 23-year-old bay had been killed and a 2½ year-old Clydesdale had three bullet wounds to the head. Their owner, Bob Fletcher, a farmer, discovered the shot animals yesterday morning.
The bullets are still lodged in the Clydesdale’s skull and the animal may have to be transferred to a specialist veterinary unit in Edinburgh for a life-saving operation.
“I am so shocked that this should have happened,” said Fletcher, 54, who moved to the Highlands with his wife, Jane, 11 years ago.
“I would have expected it in Brixton where I come from, but not in the Highlands. We moved up here to get away from all the violence.
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“I can’t think of any reason why this should have happened. I am not aware of having any enemies nor have I been threatened. My wife is devastated by this. She is extremely distressed by it all.
“How could anyone do such a horrible thing? I hope the public will be able to help stop this madman doing it again." Police do not yet know whether a rifle or handgun was used. Forensic tests will be carried out this week.
“There is no obvious link between the two but we are keeping an open mind. I will be devoting all my resources to catching the person or persons responsible,” said Superintendent David O’Connor.
“This is a particularly callous and vile attack on three much-loved and defenceless animals. I am outraged by this despicable act which can only be described as a cold-blooded execution. Anyone with information should contact the police.”