Search Ongoing for Suspect in Baby Seal Stabbing Incident on Oregon Beach
Neskowin, OR – Authorities are investigating a distressing incident involving the stabbing of a baby seal on an Oregon beach in March 2025. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that the seal survived the attack and was later evaluated and relocated by their stranding team.
NOAA officials are actively searching for a "person of interest" linked to the incident. A witness observed an individual near the scene, prompting NOAA’s law enforcement office to seek more information on a vehicle spotted in a parking lot close to the cove behind a condominium building. Authorities are urging the owner of this vehicle to come forward, as it may be connected to the case.
According to the NOAA, the Marine Mammal Protection Act safeguards wild marine mammals, including elephant seals, prohibiting any acts of harassment, harm, or killing. Offenders could face severe penalties, including fines up to $100,000 and potential imprisonment for up to one year.
The presence of juvenile elephant seals along Oregon’s coast during spring and summer is not uncommon, as these animals often visit to shed their hair and skin. However, adult elephant seals are rarely observed in this region, as noted by experts from Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute.
This alarming incident not only highlights the need for wildlife protection but also raises concerns about human interaction with these vulnerable marine creatures.
The investigation continues, and local and federal officials are urging anyone with information regarding the attack to come forward to assist in identifying the suspect. The case remains a critical point of concern for conservationists and wildlife advocates alike.
(Story reported from Washington, D.C., and includes information sourced from the Associated Press.)
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