Chattanooga, Tennessee, September 28, 2025
News Summary
David Eck, 74, faces animal cruelty charges after five dead goats were found in a storm drain behind an Aldi in Chattanooga. An investigation confirmed the goats suffered from serious malnutrition and starvation. The McKamey Animal Center is leading the ongoing investigation, urging the community to report any signs of abuse. Eck is set to appear in court on November 4. This incident has sparked concerns about animal welfare in the area.
Chattanooga
A man named David Eck, 74, has been charged with animal cruelty after five dead goats were discovered in a storm drain behind an Aldi store in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The goats were found earlier this month dumped in Mountain Creek, prompting an investigation that revealed troubling details about their condition.
An affidavit indicates that femur bones retrieved from the goats were sent for analysis, which confirmed that the animals suffered from severe malnutrition and starvation. The investigation traced ear tags from the deceased goats back to a Calhoun stockyard, leading authorities to identify David Eck as the owner through supporting sales documents.
The goats’ remains were found in varying degrees of decomposition, indicating they had been deceased for a couple of days before the discovery was made. Local resident reactions showed surprise at the presence of goats in the area, suggesting it was an unusual occurrence for the community. The situation raised concerns about potential abuse and neglect.
The McKamey Animal Center received reports about the dead goats and is actively working in conjunction with local authorities in the ongoing investigation. Their focus is to check for signs of abuse and to determine the exact cause and timing of the goats’ deaths. The center has requested anyone with further information regarding the incident to come forward.
David Eck is scheduled to appear in court on November 4 to face the animal cruelty charges. This case has highlighted concerns about animal welfare and the responsibilities of livestock owners in the region.
Investigation Summary
- Dead Goats: Five dead goats found in a storm drain
- Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee, behind an Aldi store
- Condition: Severe malnutrition and starvation confirmed through lab analysis
- Investigation: Led by McKamey Animal Center and local authorities
- Owner: Identified as David Eck, 74, from sales documents
- Court Date: Scheduled for November 4
Background Information
This incident has resulted in heightened awareness around animal welfare, particularly in rural and urban areas where livestock ownership may not be as common. The McKamey Animal Center is known for its efforts in promoting responsible pet ownership and preventing animal cruelty issues.
Importance of Reporting Animal Cruelty
Animal cruelty can often go unreported, but awareness and vigilance among community members can help prevent neglect and abuse. Organizations like the McKamey Animal Center encourage individuals to report any suspected animal mistreatment to ensure that animals receive proper care and protection.
FAQ Section
Who has been charged with animal cruelty?
A man named David Eck, 74, has been charged with animal cruelty.
Where were the dead goats found?
The dead goats were found in a storm drain behind an Aldi store in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
What did the lab analysis reveal about the goats?
The lab analysis revealed that the goats suffered from severe malnutrition and starvation.
How were the goats traced back to their owner?
The investigation traced ear tags from the goats back to a Calhoun stockyard, identifying David Eck as the owner through sales documents.
When is David Eck’s court appearance scheduled?
David Eck is scheduled to appear in court on November 4 regarding the animal cruelty charges.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Charge | Animal cruelty |
| Individual Involved | David Eck, 74 |
| Location of Discovery | Chattanooga, Tennessee, behind an Aldi store |
| Condition of Goats | Severe malnutrition and starvation |
| Analysis | Femur bones sent to lab for analysis |
| Investigation | Led by McKamey Animal Center |
| Court Date | November 4 |
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Additional Resources
- News Channel 9
- Wikipedia: Animal cruelty
- Times Free Press
- Local 3 News
- Google Search: animal cruelty Chattanooga
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
