Unprecedented Trespass: Montana National Guard Helicopter Linked to Elk Antler Theft

In a bizarre incident that is on its way to capturing national attention, a Montana National Guard Black Hawk helicopter was reported to have touched down on private property without permission, and allegedly removed some highly-coveted elk antlers. The situation, described by local authorities as highly unusual, has since sparked an investigation and raised questions about military oversight and accountability.

According to reports, the Sweet Grass County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint about a trespass incident involving a National Guard helicopter on a private piece of property in the Crazy Mountain foothills in the afternoon of May 4th. 

"It is not the usual trespass call. I've never seen anything like it before," said Sweet Grass County Sheriff Alan Ronneberg, confirming that his office received the initial complaint.

The helicopter reportedly landed on the private ranch’s property, as neighbors reported seeing Montana National Guard officers exit the conspicuous grey/black UH-60L Blackhawk Montana Army National Guard helicopter and pick up elk antlers from the ground before taking off.

While the details surrounding the incident remain scarce, multiple witnesses have come forward stating that National Guardsmen used the helicopter, not only to access the private property, but to remove antlers without authorization. 

The Montana National Guard has since confirmed it is investigating the incident to determine the facts surrounding the unauthorized landing and alleged theft. As of the latest reports, no official conclusions have been released, and it remains unclear whether disciplinary actions or charges will follow. The investigation is expected to address how military equipment was used for what appears to be a personal errand, as well as the breach of private property rights.

"The air crew allegedly landed on private property and collected antlers," confirmed Major Ryan Finnegan, state public affairs officer with the Montana National Guard. "The Montana National Guard is investigating the incident, which was witnessed by a local landowner and reported to a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game warden. MTNG Leadership takes this matter seriously and is working to complete a thorough and rigorous review of the incident with FWP's law enforcement division."

Both the Sweet Grass County Sheriff’s Office and Montana’s FWP continue to assist in gathering information, while local residents await answers about how such an unusual event occurred.