Swanmore reindeer killing: Owner of 4x4 sought Published duration 7 December 2015

image copyright Hampshire Constabulary image caption Police are trying to trace the owners of a Jeep Cherokee that was abandoned after the reindeer attack

Police are trying to trace the owner of a 4x4 vehicle used by suspected poachers whose dogs killed a reindeer in Hampshire.

A reindeer and a rabbit were killed and another reindeer injured by dogs at Twelve Oaks Farm, a petting farm in Swanmore on Friday night.

A Jeep Cherokee, being pursued by officers, drove through a wooden gate and the occupants fled on foot.

Five dogs, which were running loose on the land, were seized by police.

image copyright Emma's Mobile Farm image caption The dogs attacked and killed Comet the reindeer at the farm

A reindeer called Comet was killed in the attack and a second, called Candy, suffered severe injuries.

Comet's owner, Emma Thompson, said: "It's devastating. These are our pets, we loved them. I'm heartbroken and angry - I don't know why people would do it."

PC Jon Radcliffe, of Hampshire Constabulary's Country Watch team, said: "We have issued photos of the vehicle that was left behind by the offenders.

"Have you seen this vehicle around prior to Friday night? Do you know anyone who owns a vehicle like this? We seized five lurcher type dogs who were loose on the farm. Do you know who these dogs belong to?"

image copyright Hampshire Constabulary image caption Police seized five lurcher-type dogs that were loose on the land

Related Topics Swanmore