A HEDGEHOG has died after being ‘cruelly tortured’ during a Halloween crime spree which has left Southampton residents shocked.

Police are investigating after four teens were spotted kicking a hedgehog around Warren Crescent late on Sunday night.

The defenceless animal was left with multiple fractures and ‘massive internal injuries’.

The teens - believed to be two girls and two boys - laughed throughout the attack and fled the scene when confronted by a resident.

The hedgehog was rushed to Pip Hollingworth, a wildlife specialist in Romsey. However, it was later put down.

In a social media post she said: “She was an otherwise healthy, beautiful young hedgehog before she was cruelly tortured to near death.”

It comes amid reports of gangs of teens roaming the streets of Millbrook and Maybush and destroying property.

On Monday, Southampton City Council (SCC) leaders, the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and figures from Hampshire police met to discuss the crime spree the previous evening.

Communities lead for SCC, Cllr Spiros Vassiliou, said: “The events that took place were disgraceful and this behaviour will not be tolerated. We are working closely with the PCC and police to help inform tactical solutions, assist with their enquiries and provide a partnership response to supporting police-led activity that will help to tackle anti-social behaviour in the city.”

The councillor for Swaythling has said that the council has launched a £500k fund for activities that strengthen both community groups and youth services in the city.

Meanwhile, the PCC, Donna Jones, said: “A full investigation team is working to catch those who committed multiple crimes ranging from criminal damage to theft.

“The police are determined to apprehend the criminals behind these appalling incidents.

“Groups of up to 40 youths caused chaos across the area. I urge parents of teenagers who could have been involved to speak to their children about the impact and criminality of the actions.”

Police have since launched an investigation and have been carrying out door-to-door enquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to call 101.