PHOENIX – Arizona wildlife officials are investigating the deaths of two javelinas after the desert-dwelling beasts were found in the northeast Valley with arrows stuck in their bodies.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department received reports on May 20 about two wounded javelinas in the Cave Creek/Carefree area. One of the animals had an arrow stuck in its back leg, and other had one through the top of its head.
Game and Fish officers located and captured the javelinas and took them to a wildlife rehabilitation facility. Despite receiving treatment, both animals died.
“This is not the act of a hunter. This was a criminal act by someone who deliberately broke the law, and the department does not condone this kind of blatant disregard for the laws that govern the ethical and legal take of wildlife,” Debra Groves, AZGFD wildlife manager, said in a press release.
“It is important for anyone with information to come forward and help Game and Fish bring those responsible to justice.”
A reward of up to $1,500 is being offered for information leading to an arrest as part of the AZGFD’s Operation Game Thief program.
Tipsters can call the program’s hotline at 800-352-0700 and refer to case #22-001167. Callers can remain anonymous if they prefer.
“Help from the public will play a critical role in making an arrest in this case,” Groves said.
