Pinky the flamingo has been described as a “wonderful dancer”, a “diva” and “delightful”.

On Tuesday evening, 45-year-old Joseph Anthony Corrao of Orlando was arrested at Busch Gardens Tampa after reaching into Pinky’s enclosure, grabbing her and throwing her to the ground. The veterinarians on site were unable to save Pinky due to how “traumatic” her injuries were and she ultimately had to be euthanized.

The 19-year-old Chilean flamingo holds a special spot in many people’s hearts. As word has spread about this horrible incident, social media is blowing up with love for Pinky and utter disdain for Corrao. One of those people who is extremely upset is me.

Me with Pinky during her visit to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune office in September of 2013. Photo by Elizabeth Johnson

Pinky visited the Sarasota Herald-Tribune office in September of 2013 along with a few other cool animals from Busch Gardens Tampa. Flamingos are one of my favorite animals (along with manatees, of course) and the fact that I had the chance to interact with Pinky and see her adorable dance moves made my heart melt.

I even took a photo of our executive editor, Bill Church, with Pinky that to this day is still his Twitter avatar.

Pinky also came along that day with her partner, Stinky. Stinky was a lot more laid back than Pinky and did not mind letting her have the spotlight while they visited. But how is Stinky feeling now? Did he witness the horrific event? Does he know why Pinky is gone? And what about Mr. Corrao’s family? What was their response to witnessing him hurt, and in the end kill, this majestic bird?

Pinky shows off her wings while visiting the Sarasota Herald-Tribune office in September of 2013. STAFF PHOTO / RACHEL S. O’HARA

Carrao was arrested on the charge of felony animal cruelty and remainsin the Hillsborough County Jail on a $5,000 bond.

I will be following this case mainly because I am so angry and pissed off that someone felt it necessary to hurt an innocent creature. Any abuse towards an animal or to a human being is unacceptable and it is frankly extremely disturbing. I am sure those who worked with Pinky are upset and trying to deal with the sadness as well and my heart goes out to them.

We will always remember Pinky fondly.