ALLENHURST, N.J. — The Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) responded to a disturbing discovery on a New Jersey beach this week, after the remains of a butchered dolphin were found along the shoreline near Allen Avenue in Allenhurst. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, October 30, is now under investigation by federal authorities.
According to the MMSC, their Stranding Coordinator arrived at the scene to find a Common dolphin carcass that appeared to have been intentionally mutilated. The animal’s flesh had been removed with precise cuts from a sharp instrument, leaving only the head, dorsal fin, and flukes intact. Most of the dolphin’s internal organs were missing, except for its heart and lungs.
The previous evening, witnesses reported seeing a live Common dolphin struggling in the surf just a block from where the remains were discovered. Observers said the dolphin managed to make it past a sandbar and swam back out to sea, though it is unclear if this was the same dolphin.
The remains were transported to the MMSC, where staff documented and photographed the carcass before it was buried on the beach. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Office of Law Enforcement is leading the investigation to determine who may be responsible for the dolphin’s apparent mutilation.
The MMSC has requested the public’s assistance in the case and is asking anyone with information to call their 24-hour hotline at (609) 266-0538.
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