Cooke County, Texas, December 5, 2025
Authorities in Cooke County, Texas, are seeking leads following the unlawful killing and beheading of a bison on private property. The incident, which occurred between late November, has prompted a reward of $3,000 for tips leading to an arrest, along with an additional $4,250 from local organizations. Community members are urged to contact law enforcement with any information.
Cooke County, Texas: Reward Offered for Information on Beheaded Bison
Cooke County, Texas – Authorities are actively pursuing leads in the tragic case involving the unlawful killing and beheading of a bison on private property near County Road 301 and FM 3108, located south of Lindsay. The incident took place between November 23 and November 26, 2025, and has garnered significant community attention due to the nature of the crime. As a result of this heinous act, a reward of $3,000 is currently being offered for information that leads to an arrest. Residents who may have insights are strongly encouraged to reach out to the Cooke County Sheriff’s Office at 940-665-3471 or to submit anonymous tips via email at [email protected].
Details of the Incident
The alarming discovery of a bison unlawfully shot and decapitated on private property has raised significant concern about wildlife protection in the area. The Cooke County Sheriff’s Office has reported that the perpetrator(s) not only killed the animal but also removed its head, leaving the carcass behind. Law enforcement is committed to getting to the bottom of this situation and is seeking any information from the public that may illuminate the circumstances surrounding this unacceptable act.
Community Response
In light of the heinous act, the Texas Bison Association and Liberty Highlands Cattle Company have stepped forward to offer a combined reward of $4,250 for any information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for poaching the bison. Sheriff Roy Sappington has noted that the nature of the crime suggests that multiple individuals may have been involved due to the considerable weight of the bison’s head, which would pose a substantial challenge for a single person to transport.
Background on Bison in Texas
Bison are not only significant for their ecological role but also hold historical importance in Texas, where they were once abundant and integral to the livelihoods of Native American cultures and early settlers. Unfortunately, due to overhunting and habitat loss, the species experienced near extinction by the late 19th century. Commendable conservation efforts have since aimed to restore bison populations across Texas, where they are now protected and managed on private ranches and within state parks. The unlawful killing of a bison is regarded as a serious offense, and local authorities are determined to uphold wildlife protection laws.
Legal Implications
The state of Texas enforces stringent laws against the unlawful killing of livestock, including bison. Such offenses can incur significant legal consequences, encompassing both fines and potential imprisonment. The Cooke County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the case and encourages the community to play a role in aiding this process by bringing any relevant information forward.
How to Help
Community involvement is crucial in efforts to ensure justice is served. Individuals with any information regarding the bison’s unlawful killing are urged to contact the Cooke County Sheriff’s Office at 940-665-3471. Furthermore, anonymous tips can be made via email at [email protected], enhancing the potential to bring the perpetrators to justice and protect wildlife in our community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to the bison in Cooke County?
A bison was unlawfully shot and killed on private property near County Road 301 and FM 3108, south of Lindsay, between November 23 and November 26, 2025. The suspect(s) removed the animal’s head and left the carcass behind.
Is there a reward for information about the bison’s death?
Yes, a reward of $3,000 is being offered for information leading to an arrest. Additionally, the Texas Bison Association and Liberty Highlands Cattle Company have announced a combined reward of $4,250 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
How can I report information about the incident?
If you have any information, please contact the Cooke County Sheriff’s Office at 940-665-3471. Anonymous tips can be submitted via email at [email protected]. Your assistance is crucial in bringing those responsible to justice.
What are the legal consequences of killing a bison in Texas?
In Texas, the unlawful killing of livestock, including bison, is a criminal offense that can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The Cooke County Sheriff’s Office is committed to investigating this case and bringing those responsible to justice.
Why are bison important in Texas?
Bison are native to North America and hold historical significance in Texas. Overhunting and habitat loss led to their near extinction in the late 19th century. Conservation efforts have since reintroduced bison to parts of Texas, where they are now managed on private ranches and in state parks.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Private property near County Road 301 and FM 3108, south of Lindsay, Texas |
| Timeframe | Between November 23 and November 26, 2025 |
| Incident | Unlawful shooting and beheading of a bison |
| Reward Offered | $3,000 from Cooke County Sheriff’s Office; $4,250 combined from Texas Bison Association and Liberty Highlands Cattle Company |
| Contact Information | Cooke County Sheriff’s Office: 940-665-3471; Anonymous tips: [email protected] |
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