The Whitefish Police Department has announced a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest of the individuals responsible for shooting and killing two deer in the city on Jan. 7.
An anonymous source donated the reward, according to Police Chief Bill Dial, and the source is asking others to step forward and donate to the reward. Tipsters can also receive an additional amount of up to $1,000 by contacting Crime Stoppers at 406-752-8477 (TIPS) or by calling the Whitefish Police Department at 406-863-2420. Names of persons providing the information will be kept confidential.
Police responded to a report of semi-automatic gunfire at 4 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7, but did not find anyone with a gun. However, two deer were found in the vicinity; one was shot to death while the other had to be put down due to its injuries. Bullets also penetrated a pet store, damaging equipment and furniture inside.
The state Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is assisting with the investigation.
Dial said the police department has received an “inordinate amount” of calls about the shootings from the public, who have characterized the incident as “heinous, cruel, reckless and shocking.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police.