BLM seeks assistance in case involving 19 dead wild burros
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NEEDLES, Calif. – The Bureau of Land Management is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to justice for the ongoing investigation of the shooting and killing of 19 wild burros. The animals were found along Interstate 15 between Baker, California and Primm, Nevada on August 13, 2019.
BLM law enforcement identified two vehicles of interest and want to speak with the owners of a gray or silver 2008 Toyota extended cab pickup with flared fenders and a brush guard, and a white 2008 Toyota extended cab pickup with a white camper shell, white rims, sunroof, and brush guard. Video surveillance captured both vehicles traveling together and last seen in Primm, Nevada, on August 13, 2019, at approximately 06:32 a.m., in the parking lot of Whiskey Pete’s Hotel and Casino. Actual images of both vehicles and the crime scene are below.
BLM special agents identified the weapon used to kill the wild burros as a .30-06 caliber rifle, possibly vintage based on the rifling of the projectiles recovered, that could have been manufactured by Browning, Remington, Springfield, U.S. Military Arms, or Winchester. The rifle is chambered for .30-06 Springfield ammunition. Special agents also believe the person or persons responsible used reloaded ammunition marked with red/orange paint on the bottom of their cartridges.
Anyone with any knowledge of this crime is strongly encouraged to contact the 24-hour WeTip crime reporting system at 909-987-5005. BLM special agents encourage callers to leave contact information for follow up. Information leading to the successful prosecution of the person or persons responsible for this crime will receive the reward.
The animals are federally protected under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971. The Act protects wild, free-roaming horses and burros from capture, branding, harassment, or death; and considers them an integral part of the natural system of public lands managed by BLM.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.