Authorities have charged a Redford man after a disturbing act of animal cruelty unfolded at a Detroit gas station. Prosecutors say Brandon Lee Dwayne Littke, 25, abandoned two helpless kittens and then ran over one of them before fleeing the scene.
The incident happened around 11:30 a.m. on April 21 at a gas station near West 7 Mile Road and Grand River Avenue. Witnesses said Littke threw the kittens from a moving vehicle. Tragically, it is alleged that he then ran over one of the kittens, killing it, before driving away.
The Detroit Police Department launched an investigation that led to Littke’s arrest on April 24. He has been charged with one count of animal killing and torturing, and one count of abandoning two to three animals.
Littke was arraigned on April 27 in 36th District Court and was given a $25,000 personal bond. He is scheduled for a probable cause conference on May 7, 2025, followed by a preliminary examination on May 14, 2025.
Although one kitten was lost, the other survived thanks to the quick action of bystander Yolibeth Delfin. Delfin was pumping gas when she heard faint cries behind an ice cooler. She quickly found the terrified kitten and brought it to a friend’s home for immediate care.
The kitten, later named Diesel, was fed, cleaned, and taken to Michigan Humane for further treatment. Delfin and her partner have expressed their wish to adopt Diesel once the investigation is complete.
Michigan Humane is currently overseeing the care of Diesel and assisting with the investigation. Meanwhile, a $2,000 reward is being offered for any additional information leading to justice in the case.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online.
This heartbreaking case serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion for all living beings, and the difference one kind person can make.