Additional Coverage:
- Remains of French bulldogs found in crab pots as police investigate ‘personal’ attack (themirror.com)
Thorne Bay, Alaska – Alaskan Wildlife Troopers are investigating the heartbreaking discovery of two French Bulldogs, Yoda and Whiskey, found deceased in crab pots near Thorne Bay Harbor. The dogs, reported missing since February 13, 2025, belonged to a local resident, Esther Martin, who is devastated by the loss.
The grim discovery was made during a routine shellfish pot inspection on Friday. Troopers found the dogs’ remains in separate pots near the harbor. The circumstances surrounding their deaths suggest a targeted act, leading authorities to investigate the case as a potential personal attack against the owner.
Martin described Yoda and Whiskey as “the sweetest dogs you’d have ever met,” noting their friendly nature. The dogs regularly accompanied Martin’s husband and brother-in-law to a logging unit near Thorne Bay. They vanished during a break on February 13th, prompting an immediate search by the family.
“We were immediately suspicious,” Martin explained. The family searched tirelessly, leaving clothing, dog beds, and food in the area, hoping the dogs would return. They also used a quad to scour roads, trails, and the surrounding muskeg.
Initially, the family offered a $1,000 reward, no questions asked, for the dogs’ safe return. Following the tragic discovery, the reward has been increased to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest of those responsible. While the family initially feared a wolf attack, the circumstances of their deaths now point to foul play.
The crab pots containing the dogs’ remains were reportedly unmarked. In an attempt to apprehend the perpetrator, troopers initially returned the pots to the water, hoping to observe anyone tampering with them.
However, the pots were subsequently removed or the ropes cut, further deepening the mystery surrounding this tragic incident. Alaskan Wildlife Troopers urge anyone with information to contact their Prince of Wales post.