While this incident took place just outside East Brunswick, many local residents have been talking about what happened Monday evening in Spotswood, near Devoe Lake. According to an official press release from the Spotswood Police Department, officers responded around 6:45 p.m. on July 14 to reports of a vehicle striking a group of geese crossing the road.
When police arrived, they found seven geese had been killed. The driver of the vehicle had already left the scene.
At this time, it’s not clear whether the act was accidental or intentional. The Spotswood Police Department is reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and homes in hopes of identifying the vehicle involved. They’re asking any witnesses or residents with relevant video footage to come forward.
As a reminder, geese are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. If the incident is determined to have been intentional, it could carry serious legal consequences under both state and federal law.
“We take all incidents involving wildlife seriously, especially those that may involve intentional harm to the animals,” said Captain Edward Schapley of the Spotswood Police Department.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective John Fedak or Patrolman Rizzolo at 732-251-2121.
Eyes on EB will continue monitoring updates from Spotswood officials and encourage anyone who may have witnessed the event to do their part by contacting the proper authorities.
