Warning: the details of the following story are disturbing.

Provincial wildlife enforcement officers are investigating a shocking case of animal cruelty in Clarke’s Beach, right in the midst of a residential and recreational area.

Officials were notified on Monday morning that a moose appeared to have been shot and injured in the area of Clarke’s Beach.

When officers arrived, they found a young cow moose struggling in the pond known locally as The Motion.

The animal was dispatched due to its suffering. On examination, the officers determined that the animal’s two front legs had been shot, rendering it almost immobile.

The moose is believed to have been shot around 10:15 on Monday morning in the area of Clarke’s Beach Road, out of season, and within 1,000 metres of a playground – both of which are in contravention of the Wildlife Act.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Resource Enforcement Division’s St. John’s Detachment. at 729-2348. Or you can leave a tip through the following websites; www.nlcrimstoppers.com www.stoppoaching.ca