A man in a Jeep Cherokee intentionally ran over and killed 25 seagulls on a Washington state beach Saturday evening, narrowly missing two pedestrians, sparking a police investigation.

The incident, which took place around 8 p.m. near Klipsan Beach, has garnered significant attention due to its shocking nature and potential legal ramifications. Local witnesses managed to briefly detain the driver and capture crucial photographic evidence, while authorities are now seeking additional information from the public. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police, who have identified the suspect believed to live out of state, emphasize that seagulls are a protected species, making their deliberate killing illegal.

Witnesses report that the Jeep Cherokee, operating at dangerously high speeds, repeatedly traversed the beach before finally targeting the seagulls. According to Kim Ledyard McGee, who witnessed the event, the driver made multiple passes through the area, indicating a possible premeditation to the incident. The vehicle’s high speed and reckless behavior also put two dog walkers at risk, though they managed to avoid being struck.

Most of the 25 seagulls were killed instantly as the Jeep plowed through the flock. Efforts by bystanders to save the injured birds proved futile. A few of the seagulls sustained injuries and were treated, but despite those efforts, none of them survived.

Bystanders who confronted the driver managed to detain him momentarily. During this brief period, they were able to take photographs of the man, his vehicle, and the Jeep’s license plate. These images have been handed over to law enforcement to aid in the investigation. The driver was able to leave the scene before police arrived, further complicating the situation.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police have taken the lead in the investigation and have successfully identified the driver. However, their attempts to contact him have been hampered by the fact that he is believed to reside out of state. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s name but are encouraging those with additional information to come forward.

Local laws in Washington classify seagulls as a protected species, making it illegal to hunt, fish, or intentionally harm them. These regulations are designed to preserve wildlife and maintain ecological balance. The deliberate killing of these birds is not only a violation of these laws but also an act of cruelty that has unsettled the local community.

Authorities are actively seeking additional witnesses who may have seen the incident or have any information about the suspect or his vehicle. They are asking the public to report any relevant details to assist in the investigation. This community effort is crucial for building a comprehensive case against the driver and ensuring that such incidents do not occur in the future.

Dorothy Howard, a local resident who witnessed the aftermath, described the scene as a 'massacre.' She and other locals are deeply disturbed by the seeming intent behind the driver’s actions. Howard's comments reflect a general sentiment of outrage and sadness within the community, many of whom feel an acute loss due to the incident.

Authorities are investigating the incident to reassure the public of their commitment to wildlife protection. The involvement of law enforcement aims to both deter potential offenders and provide a sense of security for the residents and visitors frequenting the beach.

Public assistance in situations like these is invaluable. Anyone with additional information about the suspect or the vehicle is urged to contact the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police or local authorities. Authorities are seeking the public's help in providing any further details to aid in resolving this case.

As the investigation continues, the broader implications of the incident reflect significant concerns about wildlife protections and public safety. The deliberate nature of the act, the proximity to pedestrians, and the use of a vehicle as a weapon all contribute to the seriousness with which authorities and the public are treating this case.