The Royal Parks Police (Met) has appealed for witnesses after a jogger in Pen Ponds, Richmond, toe-punted a cygnet to the head rather than just jogging around the defenceless animal.
The incident happened on Monday 8th June at around 17:30 hours.
A jogger, who is described as white, about 60-years-old, 5ft 6 inches tall with grey hair wearing black running shorts and a vest, kicked the defenceless animal that had wandered onto a path.
Rather than merely walking around the animal, as most decent human beings would do, the thug kicked it and, in doing so, caused the animal serious harm.
The Cygnet is currently being cared for by a local Swan Sanctuary.
But the last update did not bode well for the fate of the animal. The Cygnet was described as still being ‘desperately poorly’ as veterinary staff continue to try and coax it back to good health.
Anyone who has information regarding the identity of the male has been asked to contact the Royal Parks Police on 07920 586546 quoting reference 00705738/20
UPDATE:
A spokesperson for the Royal Parks Police confirmed:
“Sadly the Cygnet died this afternoon, his injures were too severe.
“The suspect was seen to kick another cygnet, which thankfully managed to escape to the water.
“The jogger had a logo on his running top and is balding”.

Image credit: Royal Parks Police | Twitter
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