COOPER CITY, FL – Authorities in Broward County are intensifying their search for information regarding the recent killing of 30 Egyptian geese in Cooper City. The Broward Sheriff’s Office has released surveillance footage in hopes of identifying the individuals responsible for what witnesses are describing as a brutal attack. To encourage those with knowledge of the incident to come forward, officials are offering a cash reward.
The surveillance video, captured by home security cameras, reveals an off-road vehicle, similar to an ATV, allegedly involved in the incident. The footage shows the vehicle maneuvering erratically around the area where the geese were found dead. It has been several days since local residents were shocked by the violence, which they have likened to a massacre.
Brian Schaffler, a nearby resident, recounted the disturbing events of the night. He was dining with his wife when they heard a loud commotion outside. “We heard a lot of noise from an ATV-type vehicle and a flurry of activity among the birds,” Schaffler said. Upon investigating, he witnessed the vehicle deliberately running over the geese, causing chaos as ducks and other birds attempted to flee.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office hopes the community can help identify the individuals seen in the video. The footage shows at least four people inside the ATV, which was last observed entering the Flamingo Townhomes. Detectives stress that such senseless acts of violence should not go unpunished.
While Egyptian geese are not classified as a protected species in Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) notes that they can be captured or humanely euthanized on private property with the owner’s consent. However, the Schafflers and others believe the perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions.
“This is not something a decent person would do,” Schaffler added. “It’s important for the parents of those involved to come forward and help the authorities.” The Broward Sheriff’s Office has announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
The community is urged to review the surveillance video and contact the authorities if they recognize the individuals or the vehicle involved. With their assistance, detectives hope to bring those responsible to justice and prevent further incidents of this nature.