Fort Lauderdale, FL – Fort Lauderdale police have identified a child seen on surveillance video allegedly killing a duck in a residential yard and are working with child welfare authorities as the investigation continues.
Fort Lauderdale police say they have identified a child involved in a disturbing incident in which a duck was killed in a residential neighborhood, following the release of surveillance video that prompted widespread public concern.
The incident occurred in mid January at a home in the area of Southwest Eighth Avenue.
According to police, a homeowner reviewing security footage discovered video showing a child chasing a duck into a fenced yard.
The footage allegedly shows the child cornering the animal and stomping on it, resulting in the duck’s death.
Officers responded to the scene after the incident was reported and confirmed the contents of the video.
Broward County Animal Care later removed the dead duck from the property. Investigators classified the case as aggravated animal cruelty under Florida law and began working to identify the child seen in the footage.
After initially requesting the public’s help, Fort Lauderdale police announced that the child and a parent or guardian have now been located.
Authorities said tips from the community and online posts contributed to the identification.
Because the suspect is a juvenile, police are not releasing the child’s name or age.
Police said they are coordinating with the Florida Department of Children and Families to ensure appropriate intervention and services.
Officials emphasized that the case is being handled with consideration for both public safety and juvenile protections.
No arrest information has been released, and it remains unclear whether charges will be filed.
Investigators said the case is still active as they review evidence and determine next steps.
Police reiterated that animal cruelty cases are taken seriously and encouraged residents to report suspicious or harmful behavior involving animals.
Anyone with additional information related to the incident is urged to contact Fort Lauderdale police as the investigation continues.