The search continues for the person who shot a bald eagle near Steamboat Springs last month.The bald eagle was euthanized due to the injuries from the shooting.

The poor bald eagle was found along a road near Hayden, Colo. Initially, they thought the eagle was run over by a car, but the X-rays show different.

Unfortunately, the cause of the bald eagle's injuries was due to something even worse. Someone shot the eagle, causing fractures in their leg and broken talons, according to Steamboat Today.

After being looked over by Dr. Meyring at Born Free Wildlife Rehabilitation, the injuries were found to be a direct result of the bullet. The bald eagle was shot and made the ultimate sacrifice for someone else's stupidity. The majestic creature's injuries were so bad, that the eagle had to be euthanized.

Dr. Merying said in the 22 years of his career, this was one of the worse cases of animal cruelty he's ever seen, according to Steamboat Today. The vet also claimed that:

When I put the eagle down, it was the most significant sadness that I've ever experienced.

The population of bald eagles in Colorado has more than doubled since 2009. Bald eagles are no longer on the endangered or threatened species lists and it's our duty to keep it that way. I can't imagine why anyone would shoot this majestic and patriotic animal.

Wildlife officials say it's still 'an active and ongoing investigation.' If anyone has any information regarding the shooting of this poor, undeserving bald eagle contact Routt County Communications at 970-879-1090. Born Free Wildlife Rehabilitation is offering $5,000 to anyone with any information.

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