deerphotoBISMARCK, N.D. (AP) – The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is investigating the illegal killing of four white-tailed deer in Emmons County.

District game warden Erik Schmidt says the shooting happened during opening weekend of pheasant hunting season earlier this month.

Two mature bucks were found dead in a bean field east of Strasburg. A doe and fawn were found in a stubble field southwest of Linton. Authorities believe all were shot late on Oct. 11 or early on Oct. 12.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Report All Poachers telephone number at 800-472-2121, or contact Schmidt at 701-220-7160. RAP is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to a conviction. Reporting parties can remain anonymous.

Deer gun season in North Dakota does not open until Nov. 7.