Police Investigate Blow Dart Attacks on Animals in Battle Ground

Authorities search home, find blowguns as part of probe into multiple incidents of wildlife being shot with darts.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Battle Ground police are investigating a series of incidents where raccoons, squirrels, ducks, and a deer were reportedly shot with blow darts in the city's neighborhoods. Authorities executed a search warrant at a home and found two blowguns as part of the probe. Several injured animals have been spotted, with one duck being caught and taken in for treatment.

Why it matters

The attacks on wildlife in Battle Ground have raised concerns about animal cruelty and public safety, as the blow darts could pose a threat to both the animals and nearby residents. Police are working to identify suspects and determine the full scope of the incidents.

The details

According to police, the investigation began on November 1 when officers responded to reports of young men shooting raccoons and squirrels with a blow dart gun in a neighborhood near South Parkway Avenue and SE 17th Way. Since then, there have been additional reports of raccoons, squirrels, and an adult deer being shot with blow darts in the same area. Neighbors also reported seeing people shooting pellet guns and possibly a .22-caliber rifle in the area. Four ducks were found alive with blow darts in them around the Florence Robison area near NW 9th St and NW 20th Ave, with one duck being caught and taken in for treatment.

  • The investigation began on November 1, 2025.
  • Police executed a search warrant on a home on February 19, 2026.

The players

Battle Ground Police

The local law enforcement agency investigating the incidents of animals being shot with blow darts in Battle Ground.

Detective Josh Phelps

The lead investigator on the case, asking anyone with information to contact him.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Josh Phelps by emailing joshua.phelps@cityofbg.org.”

— Detective Josh Phelps, Lead Investigator (kptv.com)

What’s next

Police are still working to identify suspects in the case and determine the full scope of the incidents involving animals being shot with blow darts.

The takeaway

The attacks on wildlife in Battle Ground have raised serious concerns about animal cruelty and public safety, prompting a police investigation to find those responsible and put a stop to these disturbing incidents.