Pa wildlife officials investigation unlawful killing of juvenile Bald Eagle in Salem Twp.

WESTMORELAND COUNTY, Pa. (WJAC) — Officials with the Pennsylvania Game Commission say an investigation is underway after a juvenile Bald Eagle was reportedly shot in Westmoreland County and later died.

Investigators say the unlawful shooting was discovered last week along the Westmoreland Heritage Trail in Salem Township.

Wildlife officials say the injured eagle was found lying in the woods along the trail and succumbed to its injuries before authorities could provide it with proper rehabilitative care.

Upon further investigation, authorities say they discovered a pellet from an air rifle lodged in the eagle’s wing.

Wildlife officials believe that the eagle was shot approximately a week prior to being found, causing a severe wound infection that contributed to the bird’s death.

Anyone with information on this illegal killing is urged to contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission or the Operation Game Thief Hotline.