North Dakota cattleman loses 14 cattle to vandals

An investigation is under way following the death of 14 head of cattle on a cattle ranch in southeast North Dakota.

State and county investigators say someone entered a pasture southwest of Hankinson, N.D., owned by David Kluge, and opened fire on his cattle. The incident occurred late Thursday or early Friday. Thirteen cattle died immediately with the 14^th later destroyed due to severe injuries.

The recent lost isn’t the first by Kluge. Investigators are searching for a link between the cattle shot last week and a donkey owned by Kluge which was shot and killed in December. Investigators believe the attack was planned as someone went out of their way to reach Kluge’s property at the end to a dead-end road.

INFORUM reports Richland County Sheriff Larry Leshovsky said evidence was recovered at the scene, but declined to elaborate.

The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the North Dakota Stockman's Association will help the sheriff’s office. The Stockman’s Association is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of the party responsible.

The Associated Press reports the value of the lost cattle at $30,000. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 701-642-7711.

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