A man has been arrested after allegedly killing a Great Egret, a bird cherished by the local community at Lake Gregory Regional Park in the San Bernardino Mountains.<\/p>\n
Jeremey Jansen, 36, was filmed allegedly throwing a rock at the bird as it perched on a pontoon, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff\u2019s Department.<\/p>\n
Witnesses reported the incident, which took place on October 23, and cellphone footage helped authorities identify the suspect.<\/p>\n
Kaylyn Donica, who witnessed and recorded the attack, said she initially saw two men throwing rocks at ducks before the Great Egret was targeted.<\/p>\n
The video reportedly shows the bird being struck, after which a second individual broke its neck to end its suffering.<\/p>\n
The egret, affectionately known as Arthur by locals, was a familiar sight around the lake. A wildlife expert described it as \u201cbeloved\u201d by the community.<\/p>\n
Authorities used witness accounts and the video evidence to locate Jansen at his Claremont residence.<\/p>\n
He was arrested on November 12, 2024, and charged with animal cruelty and killing a non-game bird. He is now in custody at the West Valley Detention Center.<\/p>\n