Overview

• The attack occurred on March 16, 2025, in a cove near Proposal Rock Condominiums in Neskowin, Oregon, between 8 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
• The injured seal pup was treated by the Marine Stranding Team and has since recovered and been relocated.
• NOAA is investigating under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits harming marine mammals and imposes penalties of up to $100,000 and one year in prison.
• Authorities are searching for a white male suspect with black-and-white hair, a groomed beard, a large gap between his front teeth, and a black cap with an orange excavator logo.
• A dark blue 1990s Dodge or Chrysler van with a plastic-covered rear window and a cluttered interior is also linked to the case, and tips can be submitted anonymously to NOAA's enforcement hotline.