Update as of April 23, 2025:
In response to several questions and inquiries about the recent animal remains case, we are sharing additional details as to the work that has been done by FPD, as well as a possible explanation as to what may have occurred.
A thorough review and evaluation of this situation was conducted involving the Department’s Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) team, Animal Services, as well as contracted third-party consultants. Based on the information and evidence obtained to date, there are currently no new investigative leads regarding the incident. Immediately upon learning of this situation, the Department prioritized the investigation and used all available resources possible to attempt to determine what occurred. Recognizing this situation is unusual, and upsetting for members of the community, Chief Washington authorized additional resources to pursue all leads.
The initial investigating officer took appropriate steps to secure the scene, seek additional resources, interview all parties involved, canvass the area for additional evidence/witnesses, and search for cameras that may provide insight into the individual(s) associated with this call for service. There were no witnesses at the scene or in the nearby vicinity, and the only camera that could have captured the incident was not functioning. Both reporting parties (callers) to the Police Department were interviewed and provided similar statements that they were aboard the train when they saw the animal remains. Neither reporting party could provide further information as to individual(s) who may have been involved.
UC Davis personnel determined that the animal was a Dorper sheep and that there was no evidence of foul play or poor treatment of the animal. Based on the condition of the remains that were found, indicators suggest that it was professionally butchered. Dorper sheep are commonly raised for food consumption as their wool is less desirable.
Additional follow-up included contacting multiple area ranchers, and none were aware of anyone in the area raising Dorper sheep. The department did identify several restaurants in the immediate area of the Centerville Train Depot that could be the source of the remains. One theory is that the remains were removed from a trash receptacle of a nearby business. Without additional evidence, we cannot confirm this is factually accurate, therefore we caution this theory is speculative. With UC Davis analysis that the sheep were likely butchered for human consumption, we have not been able to substantiate a crime occurred.
As mentioned in the previous FPD post, the case is suspended. Should additional information be obtained or it be determined whether a crime was committed, officers would continue with follow up. The Department has contacted the Alameda County Public Health Department, which is the regulatory agency for local restaurant operations, to ensure they are aware of this finding.
If anyone has information regarding this incident or others that may be related, please contact the Fremont Police at 510-790-6800.
