Beloved Tampines community cat Sunshine found dead; abuse suspected

The Tampines West community was left in shock on 24 May 2025 after Sunshine, a well-loved community cat, was found dead under disturbing circumstances.

Sunshine’s body was discovered between 7am and 8am at the void deck of Block 897, Tampines Street 81. He had been wrapped in plastic packaging and placed beside a green rubbish bin.

The body was found lying among stacks of brochure papers and toilet paper packaging, with a white latex glove nearby.

Sunshine had been a familiar figure in the neighbourhood for over a decade, known for his gentle and friendly nature.

Residents’ grief and online tributes

Victoria Lim, one of Sunshine’s feeders and a Tampines resident, shared the news on the Facebook group Sayang Our Singapore’s Community Cats.

“Our community cat, Sunshine, who has been living within our community for the past 10 years, has been found dead at the void deck,” she wrote.

Speaking to Mothership, Victoria said a neighbour had discovered Sunshine’s body, which was still bleeding, though no blood stains were found in the surrounding area.

“Feeders are shocked as Sunshine has been a lovable community cat,” she said. “We are seeking witnesses to help us get closure on what happened to him.”

Veterinary findings suggest trauma

Sunshine’s body was taken to a veterinarian, who concluded that the cat had suffered blunt force trauma to the right side of his head. The vet also found his lower jaw dislocated and estimated that he had died only hours before being found.

While there were no other obvious fractures or injuries, the vet did not rule out the possibility of abuse. The injuries could have been caused by a vehicle collision, a heavy blow to the head, or a fall from a significant height.

Community appeals for witnesses

Sunshine was last fed around 9pm on 23 May. Residents are now appealing for witnesses who may have noticed suspicious activity in the area between then and the discovery of his body.

Feeders have requested help reviewing CCTV footage from three cameras nearby to determine whether any relevant evidence was captured.

Victoria added that they plan to submit the vet’s full report to the National Parks Board (NParks) and file a police report. “We sincerely appeal for witnesses to reach out and let us know if you have heard or seen anything that may be related to Sunshine’s death,” she said.

Similar incidents earlier in May

Sunshine’s death is the third case involving community cats reported this month.

On 13 May, LUNI Singapore, a cat welfare group, appealed for witnesses after a male tabby, known as Shere Khan or Papa Cat, was found severely injured near Block 326B Sumang Walk in Punggol.

The cat suffered extensive injuries between 11 and 12 May. Despite emergency treatment, he succumbed to his wounds.

LUNI founder Nina Astolfi said the veterinary report suggested signs of possible abuse, including bulging eyes, facial bruises, a head lesion, tongue lacerations, frayed nails, and signs of dehydration and hypothermia.

However, NParks later stated that investigations found no conclusive evidence of cruelty. Jessica Kwok, group director of enforcement and investigation at NParks, explained that the injuries were consistent with blunt force trauma, possibly from a vehicle accident.

CCTV footage from a nearby car park was reviewed, and the cat’s caregiver was contacted through microchip identification. Due to the severity of injuries, the cat was euthanised on welfare grounds and subsequently cremated.

Yishun case raises alarm

Another troubling case occurred on 9 May in Yishun. A community cat named King Kong was discovered dead at Yishun Street 51, reportedly with severe mutilation.

Residents claimed the cat’s eyes had been gouged out and its body dismembered. NParks confirmed it is investigating the case and has urged the public not to speculate.

Kwok reiterated NParks’ commitment to handling animal cruelty reports seriously, stating: “We urge the public not to speculate and to rely on verified sources.”

Broader concerns about community cat safety

Animal welfare groups have expressed concern over the recent spate of cases, noting the distressing impact on communities that care for these cats. Community feeders often provide food, veterinary care, and socialisation for cats living in housing estates, and many become well-known figures among residents.

The deaths of Sunshine, Papa Cat, and King Kong have raised questions about whether community cats face rising threats. Advocates are urging stronger enforcement, increased surveillance, and community vigilance.

Next steps in Sunshine’s case

Residents of Tampines West await the vet’s full report before escalating the matter to NParks and the police. Feeders continue to seek potential witnesses and encourage anyone with information to come forward.

For now, Sunshine’s absence leaves a void in the community he brightened for a decade. Residents have shared tributes online, remembering him as a “gentle soul” who welcomed affection from strangers and neighbours alike.