Stag shot in botched 'trophy hunt'
WARNING: GRAPHIC IMAGE
Police say a deer deliberately shot in the knees at Eildon may still be alive but seriously injured.
Three fisherman may have witnessed the cruel attack which happened on the Eildon Pondage at around 10am on Saturday, July 6.
Police have been told that a person driving a white Toyota trayback ute, a Hilux or a LandCruiser, pulled up behind Eildon cemetery and fired a shot, hitting the Sambar stag in the knees.
The man left the area when spotted by the fishermen.
Police believe the shooting was a deliberate act to harvest the trophy stag with a low-powered rifle in order to avoid being caught.
The stag was not captured and is likely still alive but seriously injured, police say.
Investigators are particularly keen to speak with the three fishermen.
The ute may also have been seen on Jerusalem Creek Road at around 10pm that night and has tool boxes attached to the undercarriage of the tray.
Anyone with further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
