Seventeen wild horses were shot near Kamloops, BC and the RCMP say it is a disheartening act.

Police are still trying to determine a motive but say the horses are of cultural significance to the local Skeetchestn Band.

March 10th RCMP received a report of several horses killed on British Columbia Crown Land approximately 65 kilometres West of Kamloops.

The RCMP say the horses appear to be from a herd of feral (wild) horses which frequent the area.

The RCMP’s Forensic Identification Section examined the scene, along with a veterinarian, and a BC-RCMP Livestock Investigator. Investigators will continue to collect and examine everything available.

If you know anyone who has any information, you’re encouraged to contact the Cpl. Cory Lepine, RCMP Livestock Section, 250-299-7462, or Email cory.lepine@rcmp-grc.gc.ca