Monteforte Irpino community seeks justice after dog killed by gunfire

A one-year-old mixed-breed dog named Duke was killed by gunfire in Monteforte Irpino, an area in the province of Avellino known for poaching risks. The dog's body was discovered last Sunday, bearing multiple gunshot wounds.

The incident has sparked significant indignation among local citizens, animal rights associations, and municipal authorities. Duke lived freely in the area and was cared for by local volunteers, most notably Paola De Nardo, who provided daily assistance and monitoring.

Mayor Fabio Sircio and Animal Welfare Councilor Francesca De Santis have condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with the volunteers. Local administration officials have placed their trust in competent authorities to clarify the circumstances of the death and identify those responsible. This event follows a similar incident in December involving another dog named Nathan, raising concerns regarding the safety of free-roaming animals in the region.