Devastating Outcome for Harbor Seal Pup Shot in the Head

Bellingham, Washington – Devastating news has been released about a young harbor seal pup who was shot in the head earlier this month. The three-week-old pup, known as number 24, was found over the Fourth of July weekend and was recovering under the care of SeaLife Response, Rehabilitation, & Research (SR3).

On Wednesday, the organization told social media followers that the pup, dubbed Waffles, had been humanely euthanized after a CT scan revealed bullet fragments in his brain.

A recent CT scan revealed that fragments from the projectile penetrated his skull, lodging into his brain tissue. This would lead to a painful, fatal infection. While 2D x-ray images were useful for confirming the cause of his injuries initially, 3D CT scans gave us the full medical picture so we could make the best and most humane decision. It was clear he would not recover from his injuries, and our veterinary team made the difficult decision to peacefully end his suffering.

Tragically, SR3 said this is the third gunshot victim they have treated in the past nine months.

It is unknown who shot Number 24, aka Waffles. Rest in peace little one.