State investigating shark pups found dead at Keehi Lagoon

The state is investigating the death of 50 to 100 baby hammerhead sharks found on land near the La Mariana Sailing Club at Keehi Lagoon, according to officials.

The state Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement was notified of the dead sharks Tuesday morning by a private citizen. While Keehi Lagoon is a known location for hammerhead pupping at this time of year, it is not a naturally occurring event for pups to be found ashore in large numbers, state officials said. It is possible that the pups were netted and dumped on land instead of being properly disposed of, state officials added.

City spokesman Andrew Pereira said the responsibility for removal of the sharks lies with the lessee of the state property.

Anyone with information is asked to call 643-DLNR. Violations can be reported at that number as well as via the DLNRTip app.