Pittsburgh, PA – Detectives are investigating alleged acts of animal cruelty in the city’s Northview Heights neighborhood after videos surfaced on social media showing mice being attached to fireworks.
According to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, detectives were alerted on Aug. 13 around 5 p.m. to videos that appeared to depict individuals attaching mice to fireworks with duct tape and igniting the devices. The animals, reportedly purchased from a local pet store, were killed in the process.
Detectives responded to the 410 block of Mt. Pleasant Road, where they believe the incident occurred. At the scene, investigators recovered a plastic bin, remnants of fireworks, and a roll of tape. The Mobile Crime Unit processed the area for evidence, while detectives reviewed CCTV footage and interviewed multiple witnesses.
“This kind of behavior with adults at this age already is extremely concerning, and the means that they’re doing it is pretty horrifying,” Detective Alex Castanzo told local news.
On Aug. 14, officers and detectives executed a search warrant at the same address. Police said one adult male was detained on unrelated charges, with additional charges expected in connection to the ongoing animal cruelty investigation.
Authorities continue to stress that the case remains active as investigators continue to review evidence and determine the extent of potential charges.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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