This is an actual photo taken before the Bobcat was taken down.
On Tuesday, October 28, 2014 a dead Bobcat was discovered at the football practice field at Tullahoma High. That field was in use on Monday and no irregularities were noticed. The students who discovered the Bobcat reported to their teacher and the Bobcat was removed from the goalpost. THS officials reported the incident to the Tullahoma Police Department and the dead animal was removed from the property by Tullahoma Animal Control.
Local authorities and officials with Coffee County High School and Tullahoma High School are investigating this issue.
Dr Dan Lawson Director of Tullahoma Schools says, “This despicable act does not represent the leadership, citizenry or the vast majority of students at Coffee County High School and Tullahoma High School.” Lawson added, “We are friends, neighbors, relatives and at time fierce competitors, but that fierce competition leaves no room for cruelty to animals.” Lawson says, “Nearly every student in Tullahoma and Manchester is disgusted that any innocent animal is used as an object lesson and all are hopeful that our competition is safe, fair and fun!”
Dr Joey Vaughn, Principal of Coffee County High School said in a written statement to WMSR, “The rivalry between Coffee County Central High School and Tullahoma High School has a storied tradition with mutual respect from both sides.” Vaughn added, “There have been various events throughout these years, but this week someone took a high school rivalry and took it too far. The actions of a few do not represent this community as a whole.” Vaughn said, “At this time we do not know who committed this callous act or what their involvement with the rivalry is, but there is no place in our community or this world for these types of actions.” Dr Vaughn wrapped up his statement by saying, “The rivalry will continue on the football field this Friday night and we ask that our community remember that we have outstanding young people representing both great high schools.”
Dr LaDonna McFall Director of Schools for Coffee County says, “It stuns and saddens me to think that someone committed an act of such cruelty in the name of a high school rivalry. We are actively investigating this situation and the perpetrator(s) will be dealt with appropriately.” McFall urges the community to not judge our student body as a whole based on this heinous act of a few. McFall added, “We have caring respectful students that do not condone this type of behavior.”
The Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency website says that Bobcat hunting and trapping seasons are only open between Nov. 21 and Feb. 28.
We’ll have more information as this story develops.
