It is said that those who mistreat animals will have to account for their actions, maybe not in this life, but there will be an accounting. But the hardest part of this is, of course, the loss of a loved family member. I feel so very bad that someone was evil enough to do this.
And after the initial loss, then, mistrust grows as to who was the perpetrator. All I can say is that there are probably a host of good people around you, and one sick individual. I hope it can be found out who that person is. And I hope that this doesn't cause irreversible damage to the relationships you may have with your neighbors.
And remember, just as our lives don't ever cease (at least that's my belief), neither do the lives of our pets or of any living thing. They just change from this mortal sphere to an immortal one.
It is my prayer that love and charity may fill your heart, and that the support you receive, not only here on DC, but from your family and friends will help heal the wounds of this tragedy.
Seeeeeeya; Goodweed of the North