East Hempfield Township, Pennsylvania, October 17, 2025
News Summary
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is investigating the shooting of a rare piebald buck found dead in East Hempfield Township. This unique deer, which had become a beloved figure in the community, was discovered by a local resident and shows signs of having been illegally hunted. The community is outraged, and the Game Commission is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Farmingdale, Pennsylvania – Investigation Launched into Piebald Buck Shooting
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is investigating the shooting of a rare piebald buck in East Hempfield Township. The animal was discovered dead on October 11, 2025, by local resident Dan Keener, following a tip from a neighbor regarding its location along the Farmingdale Trail.
The Game Commission warden promptly removed the carcass on the same day it was reported. According to a spokesperson for the Game Commission, the buck “appeared to be shot.” The deer was found in an area where hunting is prohibited and exhibited a chest wound, suggesting it had been illegally hunted. Additionally, there was evidence that someone had attempted to cut off its antlers but did not succeed, as noted by Keener.
The piebaldism condition that affected the buck is characterized by reduced skin and hair pigmentation, leading to its distinctive almost all-white coat. This condition is quite rare, with piebald deer reported in less than 1% of the overall deer population. Piebald deer are different from true albino deer, as they generally do not have the pink eyes, hooves, and noses associated with albino animals.
The deceased buck was estimated to be around 3 years old and had gained popularity within the community, recognized as a local mascot. Keener and his son frequently walked the trail to view the unique animal, with Keener’s son even displaying a picture of it in his college dorm. Residents, including Lancaster County Judge David Ashworth, have described the deer as a beloved presence, with Ashworth comparing it to a pet. He criticized the act of killing the deer as “vandalism” rather than sporting hunting, emphasizing safety concerns for families and children using the nearby busy trail.
Community members are distressed by the incident and consider the piebald buck an integral part of their local environment. Keener expressed a belief that whoever shot the deer would experience remorse for taking such a beautiful animal from the community.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is actively seeking any information related to this case. Individuals with knowledge are encouraged to contact their dispatch center or the Operation Game Thief hotline.
Background on Piebald Deer
Piebald deer are genetically unique, appearing in various regions, though their sightings are not uncommon despite their rarity. Most piebald deer may develop physical deformities, yet Keener noted that this particular deer appeared to be in good health.
Community Impact
The unsolved case of the piebald buck has sparked considerable concern in the East Hempfield Township community, highlighting the close bond residents felt towards this distinct wildlife member. The incident has raised discussions about wildlife protection and safety regulations concerning hunting near populated areas.
FAQs
What happened to the piebald buck?
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is investigating the shooting of a rare piebald buck found dead in East Hempfield Township on October 11, 2025.
Who discovered the dead deer?
The dead deer was discovered by Dan Keener, a 68-year-old resident, after being informed of its location by a neighbor.
What is piebaldism?
Piebaldism is a genetic condition characterized by reduced skin and hair pigmentation, resulting in an almost all-white coat. Piebald deer are different from true albino deer.
What actions are being taken regarding the shooting?
The Pennsylvania Game Commission is investigating the incident and encourages anyone with information to contact their dispatch center or the Operation Game Thief hotline.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Lancaster Online: Investigation of Rare Piebald Buck
- Wikipedia: Piebaldism
- Lancaster Online: Piebald Deer Video
- Google Search: Piebald Deer
- New York Post: Long Islanders Asked to Slaughter Deer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Deer
- Outdoor Life: New York Record Bucks
- Google News: Deer Population
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