INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. – The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a series of intentional tree poisonings at Burnt Cedar Beach after multiple trees were recently found contaminated.
On July 24, 2026, deputies responded to Burnt Cedar Beach after a strong odor was discovered near the base of a large pine tree. Soil samples were collected from the area and had a strong odor consistent with previous tree-poisoning incidents at the property.
Deputies returned to Burnt Cedar Beach on August 2 after additional trees were discovered with a substance around their bases. Investigators believe the most recent incident occurred sometime between approximately 11:30 a.m. on August 1 and 5:00 a.m. on August 2. A trail camera captured a brief light near the area at approximately 2:00 a.m. Deputies are continuing to investigate the incident and are canvassing the area for additional video evidence.
“The deliberate destruction of these trees is deeply troubling and represents a significant loss for the entire community,” said Sheriff Darin Balaam. “We are taking these repeated incidents seriously and asking anyone with information to come forward so the person responsible can be identified and held accountable.”
The recent cases follow similar incidents reported at Burnt Cedar Beach in previous years. Since 2022, investigators have documented multiple cases involving a substance being poured around the bases of trees or placed into holes drilled near their roots.
Detectives with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office have been notified and are continuing to investigate.
Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity at Burnt Cedar Beach between August 1 and August 2, or who has information that may assist investigators, is asked to contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office at (775) 328 – 3001 and reference case number 26-4225.
Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900.
