Idaho Investigators Seek Tips After Series of Cattle Shootings in Southern Idaho Counties
Why It Matters
For ranch families across Southern Idaho, livestock represents not just income but years of careful investment and daily labor. A string of cattle shootings across multiple counties is threatening that way of life, and law enforcement is now calling on the public for help tracking down those responsible.
What Happened
The Idaho State Brand Inspector’s Office, working alongside several county sheriff’s departments, is investigating a series of cattle shootings spread across Gooding, Jerome, Jefferson, and Payette Counties. The incidents have taken place over recent weeks, with many occurring in remote grazing areas near Wendell in Gooding County.
At least three cattle have been confirmed as unlawfully killed, while eight total deaths are under investigation as authorities work to determine whether the cases are connected. A new shooting was reported as recently as overnight before the announcement. In some incidents, portions of the animals were butchered; in others, the carcasses were left in place.
Several of the animals killed were cows with nursing calves, compounding the harm to ranching operations.
By the Numbers
- 8 cattle deaths currently under investigation across multiple Southern Idaho counties
- 3 animals confirmed as unlawfully killed
- Thousands of dollars in estimated losses to affected ranch families
- Multiple counties affected: Gooding, Jerome, Jefferson, and Payette
- 1 tip line available: 208-884-7070 or ContactBrands@isp.idaho.gov
Officials Speak Out
Idaho State Brand Inspector Cody Burlile did not mince words about the severity of the crimes. “This is a serious crime that directly impacts Idaho ranching families and their livelihoods,” Burlile said. “The losses associated with these incidents are in the thousands of dollars.”
Burlile also stressed that the harm extends well beyond finances. “What they don’t see is the suffering these animals endure, the impact on calves that depend on their mothers,” he said, adding that investigators view these as more than simple property crimes.
Under Idaho law, the malicious killing or destruction of livestock is a felony offense, and investigators say additional charges could apply depending on the circumstances of each case.
Who May Have Seen Something
Because many of the shootings occurred in remote areas accessible to the public, law enforcement believes that hunters, recreational shooters, off-highway vehicle users, or other outdoor recreationists may have been in the vicinity during the incidents. Investigators are urging anyone who noticed suspicious vehicles, heard gunfire in unusual circumstances, or observed individuals near cattle carcasses to come forward.
The Brand Inspector’s Office is coordinating with the Gooding County Sheriff’s Office, the Jerome County Sheriff’s Office, and additional law enforcement agencies across the affected region. The investigation reflects the broader challenges facing rural Idaho communities in protecting agricultural resources across vast, sparsely monitored grazing territory.
Reward Offered
The Idaho Cattle Association has announced a reward for tips that lead to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact the State Brand Inspector at 208-884-7070 or by email at ContactBrands@isp.idaho.gov. Tips may also be submitted directly to local law enforcement agencies.
What’s Next
Investigators are continuing to assess whether all eight deaths are part of a coordinated pattern or represent separate incidents. As more reports come in — including the most recent overnight shooting — officials say the investigation remains active and ongoing. Felony charges are possible for anyone identified as responsible, and the reward from the Idaho Cattle Association may prove key to generating leads in cases that took place far from populated areas.
Idaho ranching communities are encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity near grazing areas to law enforcement promptly. For context on other active law enforcement matters in the state, recent cases highlight Idaho authorities’ ongoing work addressing crimes targeting vulnerable residents and property.
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