HANAHAN, S.C. — A kitten that survived being thrown from a moving vehicle in Hanahan last week has found a new home and is recovering well, according to Hanahan Animal Control, as authorities continue their search for the person responsible for the act.
The update comes less than a week after witnesses reported seeing the kitten tossed from the passenger window of a moving vehicle along Henry E. Brown Jr. Boulevard in what investigators described as a serious case of animal cruelty.
In a Facebook post Tuesday, Hanahan Animal Control announced the kitten has officially been adopted and is settling in with her new family.
“She has officially found her happily ever after,” the agency wrote. “Aside from a few minor surface cuts that are healing quickly, she received a completely clean bill of health from her veterinarian.”
Officials also thanked residents for sharing information about the case and helping bring attention to the kitten’s plight.
“It truly takes a village, and Hanahan showed up for her,” the agency said.
Disturbing Incident Sparked Community Outrage
The investigation began on the morning of June 3 after witnesses reported seeing a kitten thrown from a gray or dark-colored minivan or SUV traveling on Henry E. Brown Jr. Boulevard near the bridge.
The incident occurred between 9:30 and 10 a.m., according to authorities.
Witnesses told investigators the vehicle later turned right onto Yeamans Hall Road after the kitten was thrown from the passenger-side window.
The incident quickly generated outrage across social media, with hundreds of residents sharing posts from Hanahan Animal Control and the Hanahan Police Department in hopes of identifying those involved.
Police later confirmed the kitten had been located and appeared to be in good health despite the ordeal.
Search for Suspect Continues
While the kitten’s recovery has provided a positive outcome, officials say the criminal investigation remains active.
“We are still actively searching for the individuals responsible for this heartless act,” Hanahan Animal Control said in Tuesday’s update. “Animal cruelty is a serious crime, and we will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served.”
Investigators are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or may have information about the vehicle involved to come forward.
Authorities say even seemingly minor details — including a partial license plate number, dash-camera footage or descriptions of the vehicle’s occupants — could prove critical to the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Hanahan Animal Control at 843-256-8994, the Hanahan Police Department’s non-emergency line at 843-747-5711, or Berkeley County Dispatch at 843-719-4505.
As investigators continue searching for answers, officials say the kitten’s recovery serves as a reminder of both the dangers of animal abuse and the impact a community can have when residents rally together to help an animal in need.
