In The Arizona Wilds, Burro Murders Baffle Investigators

In the Arizona desert outside of Phoenix, a series of mysterious burro shootings has left federal investigators puzzled. Over the last five years, 18 burros have been shot, with the latest incident occurring in late January when two burros from the Lake Pleasant herd were found dead.

These wild burros, descendants of pack animals abandoned by gold miners over a century ago, are federally protected. Despite this, they have become targets for unknown assailants.

The Investigation

Steve Bird, a burro specialist with the Bureau of Land Management, describes the scene as a murder investigation. The shootings are precise, with each burro shot once in the lungs, indicating skillful marksmanship.

The motive remains unclear, as burros are not hunted for meat. The Bureau of Land Management suspects these acts are nothing more than target practice.

Burros: Easy Targets

In Oatman, Arizona, burros are a common sight, often interacting with tourists. Their tame nature makes them vulnerable, as Jim Quinn, a local resident, explains. He notes that the burros' passivity makes them easy targets for those looking to take potshots.

Despite being protected by federal law, these symbolic animals of the American West face ongoing threats. The last known prosecution for such a crime dates back to the Clinton administration.

Legal Consequences

Those responsible for the shootings near Phoenix could face up to a year in prison. However, with little evidence, federal authorities have few leads.

Originally posted by KALW.