A California man has been arrested and charged for allegedly killing a “beloved bird,” the Great Egret, at Lake Gregory Regional Park in the San Bernardino Mountains, east of Los Angeles.

Authorities identified the suspect as 36-year-old Jeremy Jansen, who was reportedly caught on video throwing rocks at the bird. The San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department confirmed the arrest, stating Jansen was booked into the West Valley Detention Center on charges of animal cruelty and killing a non-game bird.

The October 23 incident was filmed by Kaylyn Donica, a witness who said she noticed two men throwing rocks at ducks in the lake before targeting the egret. “It was just shock and anger, like, ‘What the hell is wrong with you?’” Donica told KTLA, describing her reaction to the violent act.

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The cellphone footage allegedly shows Jansen throwing a rock at the Great Egret, leaving the bird defenseless. A second person then reportedly broke the bird’s neck to “ease its suffering,” according to authorities. A third individual retrieved the injured bird from the water before it was killed.

Local outrage over death of “Arthur”

A wildlife expert informed KTLA that the bird, affectionately known as Arthur by locals, was a fixture in the community. Its death has sparked anger among residents and animal rights advocates.

“He went walking up toward the grass with it and was looking at it under its wing. I guess he determined it was really hurt and put it out of misery,” Donica recounted about the second suspect’s actions.

Arrest and Investigation

After an investigation that included reviewing video footage and gathering witness statements, sheriff’s department investigators identified Jansen as a suspect. “On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, investigators contacted Jansen at his primary residence in Claremont and confirmed he was the subject in the video,” the sheriff’s department stated. Jansen now faces serious charges related to the death of the federally protected bird. Authorities are continuing to investigate the involvement of others captured in the footage.

Call for public assistance

The San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department is encouraging anyone with additional information to come forward. Deputy Ian Buchowiecki and Deputy Omar Romero-Rios can be reached at 909-336-0600. The incident has reignited discussions about stricter penalties for animal cruelty and the protection of wildlife in public spaces.