Officials have asked for help from the public to find out who illegally killed what was described as a trophy pronghorn buck.

The pronghorn was killed sometime during the opening weekend of the state’s big game archery hunt. The hunt opened August 21.

Officials from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources said the animal was shot and killed with a rifle west of Sulphurdale in Beaver County..

It was then left to waste.

According to a press release issued Thursday, Sept 9, the buck’s horns measured over 14 inches long.

"It is a shame that a buck as spectacular as this one has been taken from law-abiding hunters who were excited to pursue it legally," said DWR Conservation Officer Jeremy Butler.

Anyone with information about the pronghorn’s death has been asked to call DWR conservation officers at the UTiP Hotline, 800-662-3337 or by texting 847411.