Thirteen wild horses have been shot and killed in Arizona’s Heber Wild Horse Territory.

Authorities confirmed the animals died from gunshot wounds. These were federally protected wild horses living on public lands in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Now they are buried, and whoever did this remains free.

This is not the first time violence has struck this herd. In 2022, more than 30 wild horses were reportedly killed in the same forest. Yet once again, we are left asking: who is protecting these animals?

Wild horses are part of America’s heritage. They are protected under federal law. When someone repeatedly guns them down, it is not only animal cruelty — it is a crime against our public lands and the rule of law.

Thirteen horses dead demands more than silence.

We call on the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Forest Service, and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona to prioritize this investigation, increase the reward, dedicate additional enforcement resources, and ensure those responsible are arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Justice for the 13 Heber wild horses means accountability — and protection for the herd that remains.