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RCMP in southern Alberta are investigating a disturbing case of animal cruelty.

Officers in High River, Alta., were called to a public pathway in the town’s northwest on Monday afternoon over reports that two men had beaten a squirrel to death with sticks.

The call was made after the suspects had already left the area, so they weren’t at the scene when officers arrived.

On Monday evening, RCMP released a picture of two males asking for the public’s help in identifying them.

An update sent out from RCMP via email on Tuesday morning said the suspects had been identified and the matter remains “under investigation.”

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A further update said police had determined the two are minors and police wouldn’t be releasing the identities of the pair.

Police said the investigation was ongoing and that they wouldn’t be releasing any further information at this time.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call High River RCMP at 403-652-2356 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.

The town of High River is located about 40 kilometres south of Calgary.

– With files from Kirby Bourne/630 CHED

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