Swan shot with crossbow bolt in Antrim attack

By David Hunter

Poeple living in Antrim have hit out after a swan was killed in an apparent crossbow attack overnight.

Police and a vet were called to the Loughshore area last night after pictures appeared online. 

They showed the bird in the water near the riverbank with the bolt clearly sticking out of it's head. 

Attempts were made to save the bird, but it had moved into open water and died before a vet could reach it.

Councillor Neil Kelly told QRadio it was an act of "vile brutality".

He said: "I was there this morning and saw the bird. I was completely disgusted that a defenceless animal could be attacked in such a way."

“The fact a crossbow was used makes this even more sinister, because who knows what could have even happened there at the waters edge.

"Someone who would willingly partake in such behaviour needs to be found and brought to justice as soon as possible. They're very clearly a danger."

Anyone with information has been asked to contact police on the non emergency 101 number.