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Officials Seek Suspect Who Tied 5 Puppies To Tree Under Active Beehive

FALLBROOK  (AP) — Animal services officials are seeking a suspect who tied five puppies to a tree under an active beehive in San Diego County. Three of the dogs were found dead and two were critically injured.

County spokeswoman Tracy DeFore says firefighters discovered a gruesome scene when responding to a suspicious fire in a Fallbrook field Thursday about noon.

Approximately 25 feet from the fire, the puppies were found under a tree, bound to its trunk.

Two 5-month-old Jack Russell Terriers died from strangulation, most likely a result of their desperate attempts to escape the swarm of bees.

A five-month-old Rottweiler died from unknown causes.

Two more puppies were stung dozens of times and have been receiving around-the-clock care.

Investigators are seeking witnesses who can describe the person who left them.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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