Police are investigating after another beloved family pet fell victim to the depraved “M25 Cat Killer”.

Jack was found decapitated on a front lawn in St Albans on Wednesday, with his death bearing all the hallmarks of the infamous killer.

Jack’s owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, was left heartbroken by his death, having owned him since she was just eight years old.

After he went missing, she had spent all day looking for him with the help of friends and neighbours, describing his disappearance as “very out of character”.  

“He’s 18 and doesn’t stay out, so I knew something was wrong,” she said.

After giving up the search for the evening, she was informed that someone had found a dead cat on their front lawn.

“I saw him at a glance and knew it was him because he has distinctive markings,” she said.

“As I got closer I shrieked. His head was removed, it still hasn’t been found.

“I need this person to be caught. I can’t bear the thought of anyone else going through this.”

More than 250 cat killings have been attributed to the unidentified group or individual since 2014, with the spree beginning in Croydon but spreading out across and around London, leading to the “M25 Cat Killer” moniker.

Police confirmed they had been contacted over the killing of Jack and that enquiries were ongoing.

The Metropolitan Police launched Operation Takahe in 2015 to investigate the killings following the South Norwood Animal Rescue and Liberty charity (SNARL) raising concerns about a series of cats found dead with their heads and tails removed.

It is believed the body parts are retained as trophies.

A £10,000 reward is currently being offered for information leading to the arrest of the cat killer.

If you have any information you believe could be of use, please contact the police’s Operation Takahe team on 0208 649 0216.