The owner of a donkey is now in distress following the untimely death of the 'beast of burden' after it was reportedly killed by a man of unsound mind.

THE WEEKEND STAR learnt that on Sunday, the animal which was tied by its owner was attacked and beaten. It died two days later.

"People pass him a beat di animal and say mi a talk to yu and yu nah ansa mi," a female resident told THE WEEKEND STAR.

The resident who knows the mentally ill man quite well said that he needs to be placed constantly on medication.

Other residents who said that they were scared by the man's behaviour claimed that it was a serious attack that should be taken quite seriously.

"This not something to take lightly, as it is donkey now,what next. This man needs to be treated and taken off the streets," a businessman said.

THE WEEKEND STAR was unable to speak with the distraught owner of the animal but checks made at the Bog Walk police station revealed that they were aware of the incident.

"No report was made to the police, but we are aware of the incident," a policeman said.