- NOAA confirms March knife attack on juvenile seal in Neskowin cove
- Suspect vehicle identified near condominium parking lot
- $100,000 fines + jail time apply under federal protection laws
- Spring beach haul-outs make seals vulnerable to human contact
Federal marine authorities have launched a criminal investigation after a weeks-old harbor seal suffered multiple stab wounds along Oregon's scenic coastline. The March assault occurred during peak pupping season, when young marine mammals rest onshore to complete critical molting processes.
NOAA's stranding network responded within 90 minutes of the Sunday evening report, stabilizing the injured pinniped before guiding it to safer waters. Veterinarians confirmed the animal sustained non-fatal wounds across its flippers and torso - injuries consistent with deliberate human violence rather than natural predator attacks.
Witness accounts place a mid-2000s Ford Explorer with Washington plates at the crime scene. Investigators are cross-referencing traffic cameras and vacation rental records from nearby Cascade Head preserve. Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, even unintentional harassment carries civil penalties up to $28,520 per violation.
Marine biologist Dr. Alicia Corbyn notes this case reflects a 41% rise in coastal wildlife assaults since 2020: What begins as curiosity often escalates to dangerous interactions. People forget these are wild animals, not photo props.Oregon State University research shows 68% of beachgoers approach seals within 15 feet despite warning signs.
A 2022 California case saw $10,000 fines levied against tourists who dragged a weaned pup into their car to save it.NOAA officials emphasize that well-meaning interference often proves more harmful than natural threats. Let wildlife be wildremains their key public safety message.
Coastal businesses have joined the investigation, with Neskowin's Sea Drift Inn offering free nights for tipsters. The reward pool now exceeds $15,000 as Oregon's $2.1B wildlife tourism industry mobilizes to protect its ecological assets. Final seal pup counts for 2024 remain delayed due to elevated strandings.
