Man Caught on Camera Dousing Raccoon with Blowtorch

In California, a disturbing incident was captured on home security footage, showing an unidentified individual chasing and attempting to burn a raccoon using a blowtorch outside a residence. Authorities are actively searching for the suspect, concerned about the potential for further animal cruelty and possible risks to humans.

The footage depicts the raccoon trying to escape through a fence and hide in nearby bushes, while the attacker repeatedly lunges at it with the blowtorch. The raccoon appeared to already have a burn scar on its back at the time of the incident, leading officials to believe it was previously harmed.

The unidentified man was filmed trying to torch a raccoon outside of a home. — The suspect was caught trying to set the raccoon on fire outside a residence.

Rebecca Fenson, a supervisor with Animal Care and Control, stated that the raccoon likely sustained previous injuries and emphasized that the individual’s actions indicated cruelty. She warned that people who harm animals often pose risks to humans as well, describing such behavior as a form of violence.

While raccoons can be mischievous, they generally pose little threat and are usually just seeking food from trash or dumpsters. Most property damage caused by raccoons is non-aggressive, like scratching or rummaging through belongings.

The raccoon appeared to already have burns on its back, officials said. — The raccoon had visible burns on its back, according to officials.

The suspect fled the scene when home lights activated with motion sensors, allowing the raccoon to escape. Authorities believe the individual may have harmed animals before and could face charges of wildlife harassment, a misdemeanor offense.