Orlando police arrested 33-year-old Adonis Leyva on Friday after he admitted to killing a swan near Lake Eola, a beloved landmark in downtown Orlando.
Officers responded just after noon to North Summerlin Avenue and Robinson Street following reports of a man carrying a dead swan. Upon arrival, they found Leyva holding the bird, who then confessed to killing it.
Leyva faces charges of grand theft and aggravated animal cruelty.
The swans at Lake Eola are an iconic symbol of the city and a popular attraction for residents and visitors alike. City officials have dedicated significant resources to the protection and care of the swan population, which includes multiple species.
Recently, Orlando even welcomed six new swans to the Lake Eola flock to continue this tradition.
