The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the deaths of four ostriches on the rural Mojave Desert ranch of Mike Matson, a local politician and exotic animal breeder. The incidents, which have occurred over several months, involve at least two separate shootings targeting Matson’s flock in Newberry Springs.
In June 2026, two ostriches were killed and a third was wounded when shots were fired through the perimeter fence of Matson’s property. The wounded bird died from blood loss shortly after. .22-caliber rounds were reportedly used in the shooting. Matson’s wife, Arcelia, discovered the deceased birds. Months prior to the June incident, another ostrich named Pebbles was found dead after laying a nest of eggs, also believed to be the result of a shooting.
Matson, who was elected vice president of the Newberry Springs Community Services District in 2022, has offered a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the shootings. He has raised ostriches and other exotic animals on his property for about nine years. The community of Newberry Springs is located approximately 20 miles east of Barstow.
Matson believes the shootings may be connected to disputes he has had with individuals in the community. He told the Los Angeles Times that he has apprehended people attempting to climb his fence, seemingly in an effort to steal ostrich eggs, which can sell for up to $100 each. Matson also cited a long-standing feud with a neighbor, which began roughly three years ago when a dog allegedly killed his first ostrich, Fiona. Matson reported the incident, but the neighbors provided a different account to animal control.
This dispute escalated, with Matson alleging that his neighbors allowed trash to blow onto his property, that fireworks from their property once caused an ostrich to break its neck, that their dogs killed two other ostriches, and that another bird choked on plastic trash originating from their property. The neighbors have denied these allegations and accused Matson of harassment.
Authorities have not made any arrests in connection with the ostrich deaths. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is continuing its investigation into both shootings.