Oregon State Police are asking for the public’s help after a deer found in or near the Burns city limits was discovered with an arrow lodged in its head. The animal was tranquilized and later euthanized on May 21 for humane reasons after troopers determined it had been struck in the head.
Officials Respond and Ask the Public to Speak Up
Fish and Wildlife troopers with the Oregon State Police and the Burns Police Department responded to a report about the injured deer, though investigators say they still do not know when the shooting actually took place. As reported by KOIN, the deer was found alive with the arrow in its head and was euthanized on May 21.
How to Report a Tip
Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife troopers are urging anyone with information to reach out through the Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) program. According to the Oregon State Police, tips can be called in to 1-800-452-7888 or emailed to [email protected].
Why Arrow Incidents Raise Red Flags
Similar reports of deer found with arrows have surfaced in Oregon before, and those cases often trigger wider searches because they can signal deliberate and unlawful targeting of wildlife. Coverage of earlier incidents, including troopers tracking and treating deer injured by arrows, highlights why authorities prioritize these investigations, as detailed by Game & Fish.
Poaching Penalties and TIP Rewards
Poaching is illegal in Oregon, and the TIP program offers rewards for information that leads to an arrest or conviction, with listed reward amounts for deer and other big game. Investigators are asking anyone who was in or around Burns on or around May 21 to review trail-camera or dashcam footage and share any suspicious activity with authorities.
