WASHOUGAL, WA — Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Police are investigating a suspected poaching incident after an adult doe was found severely injured with two blow darts lodged in its throat in a semi-rural neighborhood northeast of Washougal.
WDFW Officer Bolton responded to the call on May 5 after a resident discovered the bleeding deer in her yard near SE 6th Street and SE Wood Drive. The doe was found bedded down, bleeding from the nose and mouth. Due to the extent of its injuries, the animal was humanely euthanized.
Blow darts are not a legal hunting tool under Washington state law, and hunting big game out of season is a gross misdemeanor. Violations of RCW 77.15.410 can result in penalties of up to 364 days in jail and fines reaching $5,000.
Authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying those responsible. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact WDFW Enforcement at 877-933-9847, submit tips online, or text WDFWTIP to 847411. Those who provide information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward or bonus points for special permit hunting opportunities.
