Bureau of Land Management, advocacy groups offering reward for info on killing of wild stallion

The Bureau of Land Management and private groups are offering $30,000 in reward money for information on who shot and killed a stallion in a popular herd in Utah last month.

The horse in question was found dead in part of the Onaqui Herd Management Area in Tooele County, Utah, on Nov. 10, though BLM authorities suspect it was first injured by gunfire a week before, on Nov. 3. 

The Onaqui herd is known for its distinctive markings and the numerous photos taken of it. While BLM officials did not specify which horse died, the local Deseret News identified it as a male horse named Pyrite. 

Anyone with information can call the Utah law enforcement tip line at 800-722-3998. BLM is offering $5,000, and six private advocacy groups are offering another $25,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in the Onaqui shooting, according to Fox News.

Since 2022, at least 60 horses and wild donkeys known as burros have been shot and killed on public land.

“Harassing, capturing or killing wild horses is illegal and punishable by up to a year in prison and/or a fine. The BLM takes our responsibility seriously to protect these animals and is committed to holding accountable whomever is responsible for this unconscionable act,” BLM West Desert District Manager Mike Gates told Deseret News.