REPUBLIC, WA — An investigation into the illegal killing and waste of a bull moose in northeast Washington led to the recovery of the animal’s head, the seizure of firearms and the discovery of methamphetamine, according to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police.

The investigation began in late September 2025 after a citizen reported finding a bull moose carcass. WDFW Police said the animal’s head and backstraps had been removed, while the remainder of the carcass was left to waste.

Wildlife officers issued a public request for information and began investigating the incident. According to WDFW, publicity surrounding the case generated information that assisted officers in identifying potential evidence.

With assistance from the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office and Ferry County Sheriff’s Office, investigators developed probable cause for a search warrant at a residence in Republic.

During the search, officers recovered the bull moose’s head, which WDFW said had allegedly been hidden from investigators. Firearms believed to have been used in connection with the poaching case were also seized.

WDFW Police said methamphetamine was located during the search. Investigators also obtained a confession concerning a stolen vehicle from the same general area where the moose had been poached.

Multiple charges were filed in connection with the investigation, including unlawful hunting of big game, waste of wildlife and unlawfully hunting at night, along with several charges unrelated to hunting.

WDFW Police credited the Ferry County Sheriff’s Office, Stevens County Sheriff’s Office and a U.S. Forest Service law enforcement officer with the Republic Ranger District for assisting with the investigation.