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State officials are investigating the shooting of a rare piebald deer in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Game Commission reported that the deer was fatally shot on the Farmingdale Trail in East Hempfield Township earlier this month. The incident was reported to the commission on Saturday, October 10, 2025.
Piebald deer, known for their distinctive white and brown patches, are rare and often considered a unique sight in the wild. The Pennsylvania Game Commission stated that the shooter also attempted to cut off the deer's antlers, which has raised concerns about potential illegal hunting activities.
The commission is urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Operation Game Thief hotline. This hotline is a resource for reporting wildlife crimes and is part of the state's efforts to protect its natural resources.
The investigation into the deer's death is ongoing, and the Pennsylvania Game Commission is working to gather more information to identify the responsible party. The community is encouraged to assist in the investigation by providing any relevant details.