NORTHERN CHEYENNE RESERVATION — Truth in Focus is seeking additional verified information after a black bear carcass was found near Crazy Head Springs on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation.
Reporting published Sept. 23 by Cowboy State Daily says Stacie Joiner found the carcass near a public-use picnic area and fire ring. The report described the bear as missing its head and all four paws, with the torso opened and fur scattered nearby. Buffalo’s Fire followed with a Sept. 25 report summarizing the discovery and the difficulty of obtaining an immediate law-enforcement or wildlife response.
According to those reports, the discovery was reported to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks was also notified. Truth in Focus has not independently confirmed whether an investigation has since been opened, what caused the bear’s death, who removed the body parts, or whether any wildlife law was violated.
Those unanswered questions are why Truth in Focus is treating this as a Wildlife Watch item rather than labeling it poaching or assigning a motive before officials establish the facts.
Truth in Focus also received a local photograph connected to the discovery. Photo courtesy of Alice Galarza, used with permission. The image will be added to the story separately.
Anyone with direct knowledge, an official incident number, agency response, or other verifiable information can contact Truth in Focus through the website. Please do not interfere with wildlife remains or place yourself at risk to obtain photographs or information.
This story will be updated if BIA, Tribal officials, Montana FWP, or another responsible agency provides additional information.
Sources & Record
https://cowboystatedaily.com/2026/09/23/mutilated-bear-found-on-northern-cheyenne-reservation-missing-paws-and-head/
https://www.buffalosfire.com/the-daily-spark/decapitated-carcass-found-on-northern-cheyenne-reservation-sliced-open-missing-paws
Local photograph provided to Truth in Focus by Alice Galarza; used with permission.