Crime & Safety
Yamhill County, OR Police Investigate Bull Elk Killing Oct. 15
Sheridan, OR – Oregon State Police are asking for the public's help after a bull elk was found dead in rural Yamhill County, with portions of the animal apparently removed and other meat abandoned nea
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-15T21:04:40.272Z
Sheridan, OR – Oregon State Police are asking for the public's help after a bull elk was found dead in rural Yamhill County, with portions of the animal apparently removed and other meat abandoned near a roadway. Investigators are treating the discovery as a suspected poaching case.
According to the Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division, troopers responded Monday, Oct. 12, to the Gopher Valley area, approximately two miles east of Sheridan, to investigate the unlawful killing of a bull elk.
Bull Elk Found With Meat Abandoned in Brush
Investigators located a deceased 5 by 5 bull elk that appeared to have been dragged approximately 75 feet from the roadway into nearby brush.
Police said the animal's head, antlers and neck meat were left behind, along with other wasted meat.
Authorities believe the elk was killed at a different location before its remains were moved to where troopers discovered them.
Investigators also suspect the animal's quarters and backstrap may have been taken with the hide still attached.
The killing is believed to have occurred around the beginning of the Any Legal Weapon Western Deer season, although authorities have not identified an exact time.
Oregon State Police Seek Public's Help
The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity, vehicles or individuals in the Gopher Valley area around the time of the suspected killing.
Authorities have not announced any arrests or identified a suspect in connection with the investigation.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Turn In Poachers hotline at 1 800 452 7888 or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov .
Tips can also be submitted by dialing OSP 677 from a mobile phone.
Callers should reference case number SP26 334940 when providing information.
The investigation remains ongoing as wildlife troopers work to determine who was responsible.