April 23, 2025: Update #4
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.
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April 22, 2025: Update #3
There is updated information regarding the suspicious circumstance at the Centerville Train Station where animal remains were located. The animal remains were transported and examined by a Forensic Veterinarian at U.C. Davis. The results of the examination indicate that the remains are from two Dorper sheep, which is a common sheep breed. Further investigation has not revealed any evidence of nefarious or ritualistic activity. The case is being suspended as there is no finding of a crime.
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April 15, 2025 - Update #2 Decapitated Animal Found on April 13, 2025
A forensic veterinarian examined the animal remains, and unfortunately, the findings are inconclusive at this time. FPD is sending the remains to a specialized facility for further analysis and DNA testing. We will provide additional updates when available.
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April 14, 2025 - Update #1 Decapitated Animal Found on April 13, 2025
On 4/13/25 at around 2:30 p.m., AMTRAK Police contacted Fremont Police regarding a decapitated and eviscerated animal that was reportedly left on a park bench at the Centerville Train Station. Officers responded and found the body of a decapitated animal on a park bench. The species of the animal was unable to be determined. There were several bags located next to the bench, and a second decapitated and eviscerated animal was found in one of the bags and what appeared to be entrails in another. This remains an active and ongoing investigation. A forensic veterinarian has been contacted to assist in identifying the species of the animals. At this time, no threats have been identified as being associated with the incident. Additional updates will be provided when available.
Anyone with information regarding this incident, please contact Fremont Animal Services at 510-790-6635 and speak with Sgt Ceniceros. We also accept anonymous tips. Text 'Tip FremontPD' followed by your short message to 888-777 or via the web at https://www.fremontpolice.gov/Tip.
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