On Monday, a dead grizzly bear was found along the Northfork Highway, 14 miles east of Yellowstone National Park.
Initially, it was believed that the bear was hit by a vehicle.
But now, Wyoming Game and Fish officials are investigating the incident as a case of poaching.
Although the agency has not yet released an official statement on their investigation, many people on social media claim to have received direct confirmation that the bear was shot.
Grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem are protected under the Endangered Species Act, and deliberately killing a grizzly illegally or without just cause is a felony with severe penalties.
There have been no reports of any grizzly encounters involving self-defense.
Anyone with information on this poaching incident is encouraged to contact Wyoming Game and Fish at (307) 777-4600 or the Cody Office at (307) 527-7125.
