$3,500 reward offered in fatal shooting of Grant County cow

The New Mexico Livestock Board has announced a $3,500 reward for information leading to the arrest of the person or people responsible for fatally shooting a cow in Grant County last month. The rancher who owned the cow found her dead on his ranch southwest of Santa Clara, N.M., on Wednesday, Feb. 13. The NMLB livestock inspector investigating the case says the shooting happened sometime between 11:30 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. that day. “This cow represents someone’s livelihood, so it’s important that justice be served,” said NMLB interim executive director Ray Baca. Baca said that the Livestock Board could bring charges of either extreme cruelty to animals or injury to livestock, both of which are fourth-degree felonies. “We don’t know the motive, but the wounds suggested that malice was a factor,” Baca said. “It’s possible that the shooter or shooters mentioned to someone what happened, and we hope that person comes forward.” The reward is being offered by New Mexico Cattle Growers, Grant County Cattle Growers, and the New Mexico Livestock Board. Anyone with information on the case is asked to call Bobby Pierce, deputy director of the Livestock Board, at 505-362-9318. All calls will be kept confidential, and callers may remain anonymous. KOB