Washington County authorities investigating shooting of seven cows
Aug 17, 2022, 6:00 AM
Authorities in Washington County are investigating the discovery of the body of a 36-year-old man early Monday morning. Photo credit: Washington County Sheriff's Office.
ST. GEORGE, Utah — Law enforcement personnel in Washington County are investigation the shooting of seven cows over the weekend.
According to Sgt. Joel Hafoka, with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, authorities were notified of the incident Sunday morning. Hafoka says witnesses heard gunshots the previous night around 11 p.m.
The incident happened on a 65,000-acre ranch in the Pine Valley area.
Hafoka says the livestock is what the farmers live off, so it’s serious blow to the way of life.
A detective has been assigned the case and is working all leads, according to Hafoka. Additionally, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources have been brought in on the case and are assisting with the investigation.
Hafoka says law enforcement personnel believe more than one person was involved. He says several casings from different weapons were found. Police believe at least two weapons were used.
Hafoka says he doesn’t recall another incident like this happening in the area. He says the only times he remembers a cow being killed was when it was hit by a vehicle.
The Department of Agriculture is offering a $20,000 reward for information that will lead to an arrest in the case.
Hafoka says law enforcement is hopeful that any individual that might have information will come forward.
Anyone with information on the shooting of the seven cows should call the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at (435) 656-6500.
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