Detectives are working toward identifying suspects in this case, and the investigation is still ongoing

On Tuesday (Feb. 17), Battle Ground Police (BGPD) detectives, assisted by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, served a search warrant at a residence in the 100 block of SE 17th Way following a months-long investigation into a series of animal shootings reported throughout Battle Ground.

Items consistent with this case, including two blowguns, were recovered from the residence and taken as evidence.  Detectives are working toward identifying suspects in this case, and the investigation is still ongoing. 

Background

On Nov. 1, 2025, BGPD officers responded to a residential neighborhood near South Parkway Avenue and SE 17th Way after residents reported observing multiple young men, described as 18 to 25 years of age, shooting raccoons and squirrels with a blow dart gun.  Several razor-tipped darts were located at the scene, some embedded in the siding of nearby homes, on rooftops, and in surrounding trees.

Over the course of the investigation, investigators received additional reports of similar incidents in the same area. Residents described seeing injured raccoons, squirrels, and an adult deer, pierced by blow darts. Additionally, residents reportedly observed unknown subjects discharging pellet guns and possibly a .22-caliber rifle in the general area where these incidents occurred.

Reports of injured animals seen around Florence Robison Park, located near NW 9th Street and NW 20th Avenue, less than two miles from the original incidents, were also received.  There, four ducks were discovered, still alive, each with blow darts lodged in their breast or body.  BGPD’s Community Services Officers (CSO) were able to capture one duck and transport it for medical evaluation and treatment. The remaining three ducks have not yet been recovered.

Violations and penalties

It is unlawful for any person to discharge a firearm within the city limits of Battle Ground (BGMC 9.24.010). This includes the discharge of BB guns, air compression rifles or guns, blow darts, or similar devices.  Any person who is found in violation of this municipal code may face gross misdemeanor charges.

Given the volume and seriousness of this case, the suspect(s) may also face charges of Reckless Endangerment (9A.36.050) and 1^st/2^nd Degree Animal Cruelty (16.52.205/207).  Additional wildlife violations, including potential hunting or permitting infractions, may apply, as determined by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.  

Public assistance

The Battle Ground Police Department urges anyone with information on this case to contact Detective Josh Phelps by emailing joshua.phelps@cityofbg.org.

To report injured wildlife, please contact the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Enforcement office at (360) 902-2936 or submit a report through their online reporting tool, available at www.wdfw.wa.gov/get-involved/report-observations.

The Battle Ground Police Department extends its appreciation to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife for its valuable assistance throughout this investigation.

Due to the ongoing investigation, no additional information is available at this time.

Information provided by the city of Battle Ground.