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Torrevieja man arrested after cat beaten to death in shocking street attack
The case is being treated as animal abuse and gender-based violence by Torrevieja City Council
Local police in Torrevieja arrested a man on Monday April 27 after a cat was beaten to death in the street in a case that has shocked residents and sparked a major investigation into animal abuse and gender-based violence.
The incident took place on Calle Jacarilla, south of the city centre, where neighbours called emergency services after witnessing the man repeatedly attack the animal, which belonged to his ex-partner.
According to local police, officers arrived at the scene in four patrol cars after receiving multiple calls from residents. The man was detained after the animal was confirmed dead.
Police explained that he was highly agitated at the time of his arrest and was believed to be under the influence of alcohol and drugs. He was first taken to a health centre before being transferred to the Guardia Civil station.
A large crowd had gathered in the street during the incident, with officers stepping in partly to prevent further escalation as tensions rose between the suspect and local residents.
The Torrevieja City Council confirmed that videos of the attack were later passed to the Guardia Civil as part of the investigation. Shortly after the incident, the woman reported the man for gender-based violence, with the case now also being examined in that context.
Animal protection services have since prepared a veterinary report detailing the injuries and cause of death.
The council, through its Department of Animal Protection, issued a strong statement condemning what it described as a “despicable” act.
“With these lines we express our sincere dismay and reaffirm our commitment to animal protection and our absolute rejection of any form of mistreatment,” the department said.
“Likewise, we join all animal rights groups in the face of this sad and despicable event.”
It also added that it “absolutely” rejects any form of animal abuse and confirmed its full support for animal welfare organisations responding to the case.
Council officials have reiterated their commitment to working with law enforcement as the investigation continues to fully establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have confirmed the case remains under investigation, while animal rights groups across Alicante have called for stronger prevention measures and tougher enforcement of existing laws on animal cruelty.
Image: Ayuntamiento de Torrevieja
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