Goat killing apparently part of religious ritual

The Danville Area Humane Society is investigating the decapitation and evisceration of a goat found Saturday in the Eagle Springs area.

The killing apparently was part of a religious ritual, according to a statement issued by the agency.

Salt had been spread on the goat’s body and chicken eggs and ears of corn were placed around it. The careful placement of these items and the presence of a jar of water and a candle lead officials to believe the goat was killed as part of a ritual.

The agency is offering a reward of up to $1,500 for information. The goat’s body will be examined at a state veterinary lab.

The goat may have been killed Thursday night or Friday night, according to the statement. The remains were found on private property.