A North Dakota rancher was making his normal rounds, checking pastures on July 27th when he came upon a horrific scene – more than 40 percent of the cattle were dead. In a press conference Wednesday, Stutsman County Sherriff’s Department lead investigator Jason Falk said the deaths have been deemed suspicious. “We’re asking for the public’s help in solving this case involving more than 58 pregnant cows and at least 15 pre-born calves,” said Falk. “The cows were grazing on rented pasture in the Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge. The 138 cows are bred to calf the beginning of September.” The cattle belong to Bar V Ranch owner Brian Amundson. Several veterinarians have ruled out all other naturally occurring causes of death, and the cow/calf losses are valued at more than $100,000. “We go through lots of challenges and overcome those challenges,” said Amundson emotionally. “There are lots of things in life that are hard, but this is probably one of the most challenging for myself.” Bar V Ranch also had two separate hay bale fires in mid-April that are being considered arson. At this time, the Sherriff’s office says the fires may or may not be linked to the cattle death case. Up to a $40,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to solving this case. Listen to the story.