( NEW TECUMSETH, ON ) – The Nottawasaga Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is investigating a case of animal cruelty after a fox was found severely injured in Tottenham.
On October 24, 2025, officers responded to a report of an injured fox believed to have been struck by a vehicle spotted near a residential property. Despite attending the scene, the animal could not be located at that time. In the days that followed, Procyon Wildlife received multiple community reports and successfully captured the fox on October 29, 2025, near St. James Roman Catholic Cemetery.
A veterinary assessment revealed the fox had not been hit by a vehicle, but had instead been shot several times with a pellet or BB gun. These injuries left the fox permanently paralyzed and was required to be euthanized to prevent further suffering. This incident is now being investigated as a case of animal cruelty.
The OPP has reported the matter to Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). Investigators are now seeking information from the public to identify the who ever may be responsible for this act.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Nottawasaga OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at http://www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Information can also be shared directly with PAWS at 1-833-926-4625.
The OPP reminds the public that harming wildlife is not only inhumane but also a criminal offence. Community awareness and involvement are vital in protecting animals and holding offenders accountable.
We thank the community and Procyon Wildlife for their dedication and compassion throughout this incident.
Over 150,000 Monthly Readers! 1 Million+ Across the entire FreePress Network.
Daily Docket for all Ontario Courts
Goderich Court Zoom Link OR https://zoom.us/join Meeting ID: 640 7440 6397 Passcode: 881382
Zoom links to all Ontario courts