Police Department

Where the Buffalo Roam

Sgt. Terry Preuninger, PIO

Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at 1:54 p.m.

Spokane Police respond to reports of bison roaming South Hill.

In the early morning hours on July 29, 2020 two bison (Baxter -1700 LB & Hazel - 1300 LB) wandered away from a ranch on the upper south hill. Citizens reported the bison wandering down the roadway in the area of Florida and Pratt. SPD officers responded to the area and located the bison on their walk. Officers followed the bison around the lower South Hill directing them away from traffic areas for about two hours before the bison bedded down in Underhill Park. Cowboy Wrangler (and Spokane Police Officer) Lee Barker responded to the location because he has raised bison in the past. The owner of the bison and a local wrangler responded to the location and set up a trailer to corral the bison. SPD officers cordoned off the area, and through the direction of Mr. Barker the bison were loaded into a trailer and safely removed from the area. 

The bison were familiar with people however, we need to remember large animals as such are still dangerous. On occasion wild animals such as elk, moose, and bear wonder into the city.  The animals should not be approached or antagonized. In all cases, to keep the public and animals safe, contact Crime Check (456-2233) to report the animals. 

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