The horse, a black gelding&bsp; approximately ten years old, lived behind the Green Creek residence. Sgt. Capps says the horse was shot three times, twice in the neck and shoulder area and once in the rear, with a small caliber rifle or handgun.

Investigators have processed the scene, but currently have no suspects. Investigators say the person or persons would have had to go to the back of the home in order to shoot the horse.

Capps says the residents left for a while and returned in the afternoon to find the horse behaving strangely. When the owners approached the horse, thinking something was wrong, the horse collapsed and was found to be dead, according to reports.

Those responsible for the animal homicide could face charges including cruelty to animals, killing of an animal and trespassing, among others. Investigators are currently researching all possible charges. This is the first horse homicide that has been investigated in Polk County, officials say.

Anyone with any information regarding the homicide is asked to contact Sgt. Capps or officer Herman at the Polk County Sheriff&squo;s Office at 828-894-3001.