The death of a number of head of cattle remains unclear after Navajo County Sheriff’s Office received information from the initial chemical tests taken last week that came back negative. Further investigation and testing from the State Veterinarian is pending to determine cause of death to the livestock. The concerns began on Sept. 9, when a local rancher in Heber area reported to the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office that two cows were discovered deceased in the area of Forest Road 9886T, Phoenix Park Wash area west of Heber/Overgaard. Deputies responded to the area to conduct an investigation into the dead cows. Two days later on Sept. 11, the Sheriff’s Office received another report of approximately 14 more cattle that were found deceased in the same area. The following day, with help from the State Veterinarian’s Office, the deceased cattle were evaluated and processed for evidence. Several samples were collected from the cattle for lab analysis to determine the cause of death. Initial reports that were received indicate the cattle may have been shot and killed. However, further investigation indicates that the cattle all appeared to have suffered from a natural occurring ecological poisoning due to the current conditions in the forest. Other reports have also been received from other nearby ranchers as well. So far, the total number of cattle deceased is 24 in the Heber/Overgaard area. The case is under investigation by members of the Sheriff’s Office including the criminal investigations unit and Arizona Livestock. The U.S. Forest Service and Arizona Game and Fish have been contacted and are assisting as well with the investigation. The Navajo County Sheriff’s Office reminds people that they can contact WETIP at 800-78CRIME or the Sheriff’s Office at (928) 532-6060 or (928) 524-4050 with information on a crime. Callers can wish to remain anonymous.
