Three people were arrested after California wildlife officers stopped two vehicles during a nighttime investigation into suspected illegal deer hunting in the Angeles National Forest, authorities said.
The investigation followed multiple reports of unlawful deer hunting and spotlighting in the forest during August. After receiving a tip from a member of the public, California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers began targeted night patrols in the area.
During one patrol, officers spotted two vehicles traveling off-road while a spotlight was being directed into the forest. Wildlife officials described the practice as an illegal and dangerous way to hunt.
Officers stopped both vehicles and detained three people. During the initial contact, officers noticed what appeared to be blood on the individuals’ hands and clothing, prompting a further investigation.
That investigation led officers to loaded firearms, spotlights and two recently killed female deer. One deer had been completely skinned, while the other had been quartered. Both animals had been decapitated and concealed inside black trash bags, according to authorities.
The three suspects reportedly admitted to killing the deer illegally and attempting to conceal the evidence.
All three were arrested at the scene and later released after signing written promises to appear in court. Officers seized the firearms, deer and other evidence connected to the investigation.
Authorities documented several alleged violations, including taking female deer unlawfully, hunting without the required licenses or tags, possessing untagged deer meat, having loaded firearms in a vehicle, using an illegal method of take and spotlighting.
The case also highlights the role of public tips in wildlife enforcement. Officials said reports from people who notice suspicious hunting activity can help officers identify areas where illegal activity may be occurring and conduct targeted patrols.
California’s 2026 deer hunting seasons are underway in multiple parts of the state, with different opening dates and regulations applying to individual hunting zones. Hunters are required to follow the applicable licensing, tagging and hunting rules for the area where they are hunting.
Anyone who witnesses or suspects a wildlife violation can report it to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s CalTIP line at 1-888-334-2258, which accepts reports around the clock.
