CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A disturbing video showing an opossum being doused with lighter fluid and set on fire has gone viral, prompting investigations by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD).
The footage, which surfaced on social media platforms, depicts two individuals igniting the opossum while a third records the act. The video has sparked widespread outrage among animal welfare advocates and the general public.
Morgan Rafael, executive director of the Carolina Wildlife Conservation Center, condemned the act, stating, “It was one of the most disturbing videos I’ve seen in wildlife cruelty.” She emphasized the need for greater awareness and protection for wildlife, noting that “no animal, no living being, deserves to be treated like this.”
Authorities have identified the individuals involved, who reportedly shared the video on their own social media accounts. As of now, no charges have been filed, but officials indicate that felony charges are possible under North Carolina law, which classifies animal cruelty as a Class H felony.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to gather more evidence and determine appropriate legal actions.