The Pennsylvania Game Commission is seeking information about the shooting of a bald eagle outside Andreas, close to the Schuylkill and Carbon County line.

Game commission officials received a call from a person who reported hearing a gunshot and finding an injured eagle Wednesday evening.The eagle died shortly after.The eagle was an adult, but it is not known whether the eagle was a male or female.Cheryl Trewella, an information and education supervisor for the Pennsylvania Game Commission's Southeast Region, said the area where the eagle was shot is a back road with homes along it.Trewella said officials are aware of what kind of gun was used, but are not releasing that information at this point.Wildlife Conservation officer Joel Gibble responded to the scene near the intersection of Germans and Stone Mountain roads, spoke to the witness and recovered the bird."We need the help of the public to ensure that the person responsible for this heinous act can be held accountable," Gibble said.Trewella said she couldn't comment whether there is a suspect in the case.However, she said that the shooter could face both a state and federal fine."As far as the fines under Pennsylvania laws, they could range, depending on the charge, up to about $1,500," Trewella said. "Now this would also possibly fall under the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and then there could be federal charges along with, but we would have to check with the feds on that if that was the case."Trewella added, "Unfortunately, each year we have eagles that are shot."Usually we're able to figure things out; it's appalling to the public, it's appalling to us," Trewella said. "And a lot of times, we will have witnesses coming forward."Readers on Facebook were likewise appalled.Traci Feaster Mengle posted, "This sick individual just committed a federal felony. This adult bald eagle most likely was raising eaglets at this time of year."Thomas Whalen added, "This is repulsive. A symbol of our nation. I hope it was worth it. Because when you are caught, your fine and prison term will be just."Amanda Raudabaugh referred to the bird as "our eagle." She posted, "We would see him so often flying through our yard. I'm losing faith in humanity more and more every day."Cheryl Rodger agreed, "I loved watching this majestic beauty fly by our farm every day."Rodney Alexander said, "I consider this an act of terror. If you attack a living symbol of our country then you are attacking our country!"Dale Schleicher posted that the eagle was nesting just off Route 895 for four years across from Bake Oven Campground about a quarter mile from the intersection.Any information regarding this case should be directed to the Pennsylvania Game Commission's Southeast Regional Office at 610-926-3136.All information will be kept confidential.