A Pennsylvania man is facing criminal charges after police say he shot and killed his neighbor’s rooster because he was tired of the bird waking him up in the mornings.
According to NBC Philadelphia, officers with the Pocono Township Police Department responded after the rooster’s owner reported that the animal had been shot while on their property.
Investigators identified the suspect as 63-year-old Raymond Zelyez of Scotrun.
Police allege Zelyez drove past his neighbor’s home, exited his vehicle, shot the rooster, and then left the scene.
Suspect Allegedly Told Police Why He Shot the Animal
According to investigators, Zelyez admitted to the shooting when questioned by police. Authorities said he confessed to driving to the property, shooting the rooster, and leaving immediately afterward.
Police said Zelyez told investigators he shot the animal because he was tired of the rooster waking him up each morning.
The rooster’s owner reported the incident after discovering the bird had been shot on the property.
Man Faces Animal Cruelty and Endangerment Charges
Following the investigation, Zelyez was charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.
He also faces a charge of recklessly endangering another person after authorities alleged he discharged a firearm within a residential neighborhood where nearby homes were occupied.