A young sea lion was found dead at a California beach in early August 2024 after being shot. Now, officials are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to those responsible.

The two-year-old male sea lion was discovered struggling between two lifeguard stations on Aug. 7 at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Orange County, California. Rescuers from the Pacific Marine Mammal Center were called to the scene after beachgoers noticed the animal in distress.

Although the sea lion briefly returned to the water, it soon came back to the shore, allowing rescuers to retrieve it. The animal died the following day.

A necropsy confirmed that a gunshot wound to the sea lion’s back caused its death. The bullet punctured the animal’s lung and caused additional internal injuries. 

NOAA Fisheries launched an investigation and urged the public to come forward with any information about the shooting. Under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act, it is illegal to harm sea lions. Violators face penalties up to $34,000. The bullet retrieved from the sea lion is still being analyzed as part of the ongoing investigation.

Officials reminded the public that harassing or killing marine mammals is a serious crime.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police in Los Angeles.