Three More Wild Horses Found Shot and Killed in Ochocos

Authorities in central Oregon have discovered three more wild horses fatally shot in the Ochoco National Forest, adding to a growing number of tragic incidents in the area. This follows the discovery of three other horses found dead last weekend, raising concerns among local law enforcement and conservationists.

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (AP) — Authorities in central Oregon say three more wild horses have been found fatally shot in an area east of Prineville where three other horses were found dead last weekend.

Crook County Sheriff's Sgt. Travis Jurgens said deputies who went to the area Friday with law enforcement officers from the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to continue the earlier investigation came upon the additional carcasses.

No details were provided on the latest horses.

The animals were killed in the Ochoco National Forest about 30 miles east of Prineville. Hunters reported finding the first three horses.

Forest Service officers went to the area last Sunday and found two adult horses and an adolescent.

KTVZ-TV reported that Forest Service Capt. Dan Smith said one of those initial horses was found barely alive with mortal injuries and an officer euthanized it.

In the spring of 2011, six wild horses were fatally shot in the Ochocos. No arrests have been made in that case despite a $4,000 reward.

Originally Posted By Associated Press