DNR seeks tips after large bull elk carcass found in Northern Michigan

‘A majestic elk was killed for no reason and left to rot’

VANDERBILT, Mich. – State officials are searching for tips after a large bull elk carcass was found in Northern Michigan.

Officials with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in Gaylord said a bull elk was poached in the Pigeon River State Forest east of Vanderbilt in Otsego County.

The large carcass was found by citizens near Ford Lake Road, about three-quarters of a mile south of the Grass Lake intersection, according to authorities.

Citizens notified conservation officers, who believe the elk was killed Saturday or Sunday.

“We are currently following up on leads,” Lt. Jim Gorno said. “We hope that the public can help us with this investigation, as they have always been helpful in the past. This is flat out poaching. A majestic elk was killed for no reason and left to rot.”

The elk’s antlers included six points on one side and seven on the other, officials said.

Anyone with information is asked to call the DNR at 989-732-3541 or the 24-hour poaching hotline at 800-292-7800. Callers can remain anonymous. Monetary rewards are available for information that leads to the arrest of violators, officials said.

Click here to view a photo of the elk. WARNING: The photo might be considered graphic.


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Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.