Search Continues for Wild Horse Killer

As the investigation continues into the tragic shooting of a wild horse on public lands, animal welfare groups have stepped forward with rewards to bring the perpetrator to justice. This act of violence has sparked outrage and a call for accountability.

Rewards Offered for Information

The Humane Society has announced a $3,000 reward for information leading to the identification and conviction of the individual responsible for the death of a 14-year-old palomino stallion. Deann Shepherd, the group's spokeswoman, stated, “In our eyes, this was just a needless, senseless act, and the person who is responsible needs to be held accountable.”

Additionally, a $2,000 reward has been offered by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and the Cedar City-based National Mustang Association.

Legal Protections for Wild Horses

BLM spokeswoman Lisa Reid emphasized that all wild horses and burros are protected under a 1971 federal law, which imposes penalties including a $2,000 fine, a year in jail, or both. “It’s a felony and BLM takes harassment of horses very seriously because they are protected,” Reid said. “We want to see thriving herds on healthy rangelands.”

Details of the Incident

The body of the palomino was discovered in the Swasey Horse Management Area west of Delta, a location known for its wild horse overpopulation issues. The stallion was last seen alive days before being found dead from a small-caliber bullet wound.

Reid mentioned, “Right now the law-enforcement officers do have some leads, but we don’t have anyone that we can arrest at this point, and we’re just waiting to hear more from the public.”

Related Cases

The Humane Society has also offered a reward in an unrelated case involving a 6-year-old thoroughbred mare killed by an arrow in a Syracuse pasture in May. Davis County Animal Control officers are actively seeking leads in this case.

Originally Posted By KUER