Sun Prairie Police Department Seeks Help with Suspicious Animal Death Investigation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, March 31, 2026
 
Sun Prairie, WI - The Sun Prairie Police Department, in partnership with Public Health Madison  & Dane County Animal Services, is investigating four incidents in which dogs were found dead  or severely injured in northeastern Dane County over a three-month period. Three of the dogs were found dead. One was found alive but was euthanized due to the severity of its injuries. All four dogs appear to be pit bulls or a similar breed. The department is asking anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be made anonymously.

The incidents are as follows:

On December 29, 2025, a dark brindle female pit bull, approximately five months old, was found on Interstate 90/39 a few miles south of the U.S. Highway 51 interchange. The dog appeared to have been struck by a vehicle and was severely injured. She was euthanized due to the extent of her injuries.

On January 7, 2026, an adult pit bull was found deceased on Highway 19 near Twin Lane Road. The dog was black, dark brown, and white, wearing a red-and-black flannel vest.

On February 5, 2026, a black and white female pit bull with a purple collar was found deceased at the BP Gas Station at the corner of Main Street and Grove Street in the City of Sun Prairie. The dog was severely emaciated. Staff at the gas station discovered the dog, and it is believed she may have been there for an extended period before being found.

On March 17, 2026, a brown and black male pit bull was found deceased in the 100 block of Davidson Drive. A homeowner discovered the dog in the morning. The dog had not been there the previous evening. The dog was severely emaciated.

Investigators are working to determine whether these incidents are connected. It is not yet known whether the dogs were related to one another. The department is treating these cases seriously and is asking the public for help.

Anyone with information about any of these incidents is asked to call the Sun Prairie Police Department's anonymous tip line at 608-837-6300. Callers may remain anonymous.

Media Contact:
Lt. Ray Thomson
Sun Prairie Police Department
rthomson@cityofsunprairie.com
(608) 513-8506