Authorities Seek Man Who Stabbed Baby Seal on Oregon Beach—What Happened?
Federal wildlife officials are urgently seeking public assistance to identify a suspect involved in the shocking stabbing of a 300-pound elephant pup seal on March 16 in Neskowin, Oregon. The incident, which took place between 8 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. in a beach cove, drew attention after the seal survived the attack and has since largely recovered, showing no lasting effects by mid-April, according to NOAA Fisheries spokesperson Michael Milstein.
Witnesses have described the suspect as a white man, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, with distinctive black-and-white hair and a noticeable gap between his front teeth. At the time of the incident, he was seen wearing aviator glasses, a blue-and-light-green fleece top, and a low-profile black cap featuring a logo of an orange four-track excavator. The suspect was last spotted in a cluttered 1990s Dodge or Chrysler van parked behind a condominium building near the cove.
The unlawful assault on the protected elephant seal may lead to serious penalties, as the Marine Mammal Protection Act prohibits harassing or harming these animals, with potential fines reaching $100,000 or one year in jail for violators. Authorities have released a sketch of the suspect and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.
FAQ
What happened to the elephant pup seal in Oregon?
The seal was stabbed multiple times on March 16 but has since recovered with no lasting effects.
Who is the suspect in the seal stabbing?
Witnesses describe the suspect as a white male, about 5’10”, with black-and-white hair and wearing distinctive clothing and glasses.
What are the penalties under the Marine Mammal Protection Act?
Violators can face up to a year in jail and fines up to $100,000 for harming protected marine mammals.
How can the public assist in the investigation?
The public can provide any information regarding the suspect or the incident to federal wildlife officials.
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Wildlife Protection, Marine Mammal Research, Oregon News, Animal Welfare, Law Enforcement, Conservation Efforts, Public Safety, Elephant Seals
