Police Officer Euthanizes Injured Skunk In Bridgeport, Cops Say

BRIDGEPORT, CT — A video circulating on social media purports to show a Bridgeport police officer euthanizing an injured skunk last week, and the department is providing additional details about the incident.

In a Facebook post (see below), officials said that on Friday, officers responded to a report of a skunk that had been severely injured and was unable to move from the roadway. When officers arrived, they determined the animal’s injuries were catastrophic and that it was unlikely to recover.

Animal Control advised officers that, based on the animal’s condition and the possibility it could be rabid, the skunk would need to be euthanized, officials said.

Under Connecticut law and department policy, officers are permitted to humanely euthanize severely injured wildlife when no reasonable alternative is available. Police said the decision was made after assessing the situation and was intended to prevent further suffering and address safety concerns at the scene.

"We recognize that these situations are difficult for everyone involved," officials wrote. "The department remains committed to transparency, humane treatment of animals, and adherence to all legal and ethical standards. We appreciate the community’s concern and encourage anyone with questions to contact us directly for further information."