Up to $1,000 available for information leading to an arrest in case
Contributed Article/Courtesy AZGFD
WELLTON – The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is offering a reward of up to $500 for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the illegal killing of an adult mule deer buck in Game Management Unit 41 near Wellton, Arizona. The Arizona Mule Deer Foundation is offering an additional reward of up to $500 for information leading to a conviction in this case.
The mule deer carcass was found near East County 7½ Street, not far from an agricultural field. Officers believe the mule deer was shot around the week of September 17, 2026.
“Poachers are thieves who steal resources from every Arizonan; they do not care about the resource and only think of themselves,” said Matthew Waunch, wildlife manager. “It is everyone’s duty to report this type of violation to protect this great resource. Due to the location of the crime scene, a hunter, an off-highway vehicle user, or a field worker near the area may have seen something or heard something that may assist officers in solving this case.”
“Poaching is not hunting,” said Donald Pelfrey, Arizona Regional Director for the Mule Deer Foundation. “It is a crime that steals directly from the citizens of Arizona and threatens the future of our wildlife. The Mule Deer Foundation stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Arizona Game and Fish Department in condemning these acts.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Operation Game Thief Hotline at 1-800-352-0700. Caller identities will remain confidential, and callers can report anonymously. People can also report online at www.azgfd.gov/ogt/. Please reference OGT #26-002960 when reporting information on this case.
