The man accused of killing a bald eagle has been identified as the father of an NFL player.
Rodney Thomas, the father of Indianapolis Colts defensive back Rodney Thomas II, has reportedly surrendered to authorities.
The incident took place on May 12 near Pittsburgh, where residents discovered one of the local mature bald eagles dead in a field.
The eagle pair had inhabited the area for nearly two decades and were known to be inseparable, except when caring for their young.
“The eagle pair had been in the area nearly two decades, she said, almost always together except when they were protecting their clutches or newly hatched eaglets. Two eaglets recently hatched in the nest, residents said.”
REPORT: Rodney Thomas, the father of Indianapolis #Colts defensive back Rodney Thomas II, has been arrested for allegedly fatally shooting a bald eagle in Pennsylvania, per the @nypost. pic.twitter.com/kJG7aRDGEw
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) July 23, 2023
The nest had recently produced two eaglets, according to witnesses.
Two mature bald eagles in their nest in Mount Pleasant Township, Pennsylvania. One of them was allegedly killed by a poacher in May, shortly after two eaglets hatched. (Shannon Kuzio) pic.twitter.com/oAHEzb3fq9
— ESPN Big Wig (@ESPNsavages) July 23, 2023
Bald eagles are highly protected species in the United States due to their significance.
Rodney Thomas II, who was a seventh-round draft pick from Yale last year, had played in all 17 games during his rookie season for the Colts.
It remains to be seen how this unfolding story will develop.
Got a story or tip for us? Email TMSPN editors at [email protected]
Want More From The World Wide Leader in Sports Entertainment?
For all the latest breaking in sports entertainment news, be sure to follow TMSPN.com on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
