By admin 
INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. (KOLO) – Washoe County sheriff’s deputies are investigating a mysterious string of tree poisonings at Burnt Cedar Beach in Incline Village, after a strong odor led to the discovery of several damaged pine trees last month.
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On July 24, deputies responded to the beach after visitors noticed a pungent smell near the base of a pine tree. Investigators now believe someone is deliberately poisoning the trees by pouring toxic substances around their bases or drilling holes directly into their root systems.
“We do not know what substance at this time was used to poison the trees,” said Capt. Joseph Colacurcio of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. “Obviously it’s something in the dirt, and that’s what we’ll use our crime lab for.”
Detectives have collected soil samples and photographic evidence, working closely with the Incline Village General Improvement District (IVGID) to identify the culprit.
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The community has reacted with outrage as the scale of the vandalism becomes clear. While six trees were affected in 2022 and another six in 2024, a staggering 16 trees have been targeted this year alone—bringing the total to approximately 28 poisoned trees.
“There’s been a lot of very upset folks here in town and on social media,” said Paul Raymore of IVGID. “I think that’s indicative of what people feel for these trees and this property here.”
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine who is behind the poisonings, their motive, and the exact chemical substance used.
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