PARMA, Ohio — Stearns Homestead in Parma took to Facebook Sunday seeking information regarding a possible attack that left two goats and a sheep dead and other animals injured, and The Farm Bureau is offering a $5,000 reward in order to obtain that information.
The farm posted on Facebook, sharing the news that it had discovered a goat named Bert dead in the goat pasture, while a goat named “Moose” and a sheep named “Billy” were severely injured. When the veterinarian arrived, it was suggested that Moose and Billy be euthanized due to the severity of their injuries.
Parma police believe the attacks happened between 6:30 p.m. Halloween night and 7 a.m. the next morning.
Anita Cook was one of the volunteers who arrived to care for the animals and found the dead and injured animals.
"It hurts, it hurts, you know our animals are going to pass away, we all have a shelf life and we know that. But, when you find one injured or maliciously hurt, it hurts," said Cook.
Other sheep and goats were injured in the attack as well, but the veterinarian was confident they would pull through, the farm said.
Several puncture holes were found on several of the goats and sheep, and while the farm said a wild animal attack has not been eliminated from the possibilities, it feels as though that scenario is unlikely as the little goats were unharmed and so many goats and sheep were attacked.
"We're guessing based on the injuries to the animals, it looks like someone came through and used some kind of edged weapon, a knife or sword," said Lt Dan Ciryak, Parma Police Department. He said the animals injuries are not consistent with an animal attack.
The farm said that without an autopsy it can’t be determined if the animals were shot with a gun as no bullet casings were found, but police were notified and units investigated the area.
Parma police need the public's help. They are asking anyone with information to call the Parma Police Department at 440-885-1234.
Information regarding the animal attack that leads to the arrest and conviction of criminal activity may be eligible for a $5,000 reward as part of their Farm Bureau membership, the farm said.
Cook said they have wanted security at the farm for years but can not afford it. The farm has now started a Gofundme page to help cover the cost of a security system.
Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter said that Parma police and animal control officers are investigating the incident and ask that anyone with information regarding the incident call 440-887-7340
