Claims of Haitian migrants snatching geese and consuming animals in city parks have sparked controversy in Springfield, Ohio. A recently revealed recording of a 911 call made by a local resident supports the viral claim, while former President Donald Trump added fuel to the fire by alleging that migrants were "eating the dogs." However, local authorities have denied reports of pets being taken for food, though residents have previously mentioned instances of ducks and other fowl being eaten.

The 911 call, obtained by the Federalist, detailed a witness account of seeing four Haitian individuals snatching geese near a city park. The caller, on his way to work, reported seeing two men and two women carrying geese as they swiftly left the scene in a gray Toyota Tacoma truck. Though the claim remains unsupported, the caller was able to provide a partial license plate number.

Springfield, a city of approximately 60,000 residents situated 45 minutes from Columbus, has faced tensions related to an influx of Haitian immigrants over the past four years. Around 20,000 Haitian immigrants have relocated to the city, straining local resources and prompting city leaders to seek federal aid to alleviate economic burdens.

The viral claims of migrants treating local fauna, including household pets, as a food source have garnered attention in recent days. However, critics argue that these claims are racially biased against the black Haitian migrants.

During a Springfield City Commission meeting last month, residents shared various accounts of alleged troubling behavior by migrants, such as harassment, throwing mattresses on front lawns, and consuming animals. Anthony Harris, a 28-year-old resident, expressed concerns about migrant behavior, mentioning instances of migrants running into trash cans, buildings, and even flipping cars. Additionally, Harris made an unsupported claim that Haitian migrants were beheading ducks at local parks and taking them home for consumption.

A viral image, originally shared on the Columbus subreddit in July, portrayed a man walking down a suburban street holding a goose, although the context behind the photo remains unknown as the author did not provide any additional information.

Authorities and local officials in Springfield have refuted the claims regarding pets being taken for food. While tensions continue to surround the issue, efforts to address the economic strain caused by the rapid influx of migrants remain a priority for city leaders.

As the controversy unfolds, it is essential to approach these claims with caution and rely on verified information to eliminate misinformation and promote harmony among community members.