Florida wildlife officials are investigating an incident in Brevard County in which a truck driver allegedly drove through a flock of birds at the Port Canaveral Cargo Dock, killing nearly 50 of them. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission confirmed the incident occurred earlier this week and remains under active investigation.
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What Investigators Found
According to authorities, officers responded after the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office reported that a large group of birds had been struck by a truck in a port parking area. Investigators say 35 birds were killed instantly, while 13 more had to be euthanized due to severe injuries. Only one bird survived the incident.
Witness Account
Heather Pepe, co-founder of Wild Florida Rescue, described the scene as heartbreaking, saying the birds appeared to have been resting or drinking from a puddle when they were struck. “All killed in an instant … left the 13 to suffer until they were put down or died,” Pepe said. “How this person hit them, even in the road—I don’t know. They would have had to gun it. Step on the gas and gunned it.”
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Investigation Details
FWC investigators have collected physical evidence, reviewed surveillance footage, and interviewed the suspect. Officials believe the birds were stationary in the parking area at the time of the incident. The species of birds involved has not been publicly disclosed.
“The animals were just sitting there, unaware of what was coming,” Pepe added. “We see their souls. We see their eyes wide open, looking at us for help.”
Possible Charges Pending Review
The FWC says the case will be referred to the Brevard County State Attorney’s Office for review once all evidence has been submitted, and potential charges will depend on the outcome of that review.
Community Reaction
Animal rescue groups and local residents have expressed grief and frustration over the incident, calling for greater accountability and stronger protections for wildlife in industrial areas like Port Canaveral.