Deaths of Exotic Deer Investigated

Caddo sheriff's deputies are investigating the deaths of several exotic deer on private property near Blanchard.  The owner of the 320-acre licensed deer farm contacted deputies last (Monday) night after finding nine Axis and Sitka deer dead.  All were in close proximity to each other and deputies say it appeared that they had died within a week of each other because of their stages of decay.  A veterinarian has been called to determine exactly how the deer died, but deputies say their initial investigation has shown that some of the animals were, apparently, shot.  Anyone with any information is urged to contact the Caddo Sheriff's Office at 675-2170; Shreveport-Caddo Crime Stoppers at 673-7373; or the Department of Agriculture and Forestry's Brand Commission Crime Stoppers program at 800-558-9741.