The case of the missing moose meat

POST FALLS — This wasn't about filling just one freezer full of wild game meat.

Burglars stole three skinned elk and a skinned moose from the locker at Prairie Custom Meats, 2708 N. Highway 41, either Thursday night or Friday morning.

"These animals were all quartered out," said Don Kirk, owner of the business, adding that the portions weigh between 130 and 140 pounds each.

Kirk estimates it would take four or five rolls of wholesale butcher paper from Costco to package the meat.

The suspects broke the hinges off the side door to gain entry to the building.

Kirk said pieces of meat were found in a field behind the business, so it appears the suspects carried the meat about 70 yards to a vehicle.

Kirk estimates the value of the stolen meat is in the thousands of dollars, but he didn't have a more firm estimate. Police and Kirk believe multiple suspects were involved with that much meat stolen.

Kirk said it's the first time in 23 years burglars have entered the business.

Those with information are urged to call police at 773-3517 or leave an anonymous tip at 777-COPS or www.postfallspolice.com.