A fresh call for witnesses has been made by police after the death of a second horse following a “cruel and brutal” attack.
Both were treated by vets, but despite their efforts one died shortly afterwards and the second has now also died.
Inspector Kevin Oates, of Northumbria Police, said he has “never experienced anything similar” in 24 years of policing and is renewing his call for information.
“We are continuing to investigate this crime, this cowardly and awful attack on two horses,” he said.
“We have had a good response from the community and have followed up several lines of enquiry from calls received from the public but so far this has not led us to find those responsible.
“We know this senseless crime continues to cause distress to the family and concerns in the Haltwhistle community that someone could carry out an attack of this nature.”
The attack took place between 7pm on 8 July and 10am on 9 July.
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“We believe the people responsible will have had large amounts of blood on their clothing and we’re asking people to think back to that weekend and to recall if someone they know came home with bloodstained clothes.
“It may be that at the time they gave an innocent sounding explanation, but if you have any doubts please give us a call.
“It may be that those responsible have also been bragging about what they have done. If you have heard anyone who claims to have been involved, or seen anything on social media again, get in touch.”
Call police on 101, quoting reference 481 09/07/16, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
