Tribal investigators say former Bison Ranch Manager Brady Kropp failed to ensure the herd had adequate drinking water during extreme August heat, resulting in 32 deaths.
November 10, 2026 04:55 PM
32 bison die due to severe dehydration; Quapaw man faces 63 animal cruelty charges – News9.com
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QUAPAW, Okla. –
A Quapaw man is charged with 63 counts of animal cruelty after 32 bison died from heat stress and severe dehydration over the summer.
Previous Story: Quapaw Nation veterinarian speaks out after 32 bison die
Brady Kropp was responsible for daily operations of the tribe’s bison herd as the Quapaw Nation Bison Ranch Manager.
According to a probable cause affidavit, the water supply to a 700-gallon watering tank was shut off eight days before Kropp discovered the tank was empty on Aug. 26. Two ponds in the pasture were also dry.
The water tank is supplied with water from an underground line connected to a water tower owned and maintained by Downstream, which confirms that it shut off the water pumps to the water tower on Aug 18, according to court documents.
According to the affidavit, after discovering the bison were without water, Kropp arranged to have a water truck fill the tank. He later reported finding a dead bison in the woods and reported the issue.
Veterinarian finds severe dehydration
A veterinarian who visited the pasture Aug. 28 observed 30 dead bison. The veterinarian later determined that another bison, named Frosty, died from heat stress and severe dehydration, according to court documents.
The 32 deaths included 26 heifers, five calves and one mature bull.
According to investigators, high temperatures averaged 99 degrees in August, with just 0.02 inches of rainfall recorded.
Investigators said there is probable cause to conclude Kropp recklessly deprived the bison of necessary water.
Quapaw Nation responds to investigation
The Quapaw Nation released a statement acknowledging that charges had been filed in connection with the bison deaths.
“The Quapaw Nation is aware that charges have been filed in connection with matters involving the Quapaw Nation Bison Herd.
We appreciate the patience of our citizens and community members as this process has moved forward. We recognize and appreciate the efforts of those involved in the investigation and respect the judicial process as it continues.
We look forward to the matter proceeding through the appropriate legal channels and, ultimately, to resolution.
The Quapaw Nation will share additional information as it becomes available and as permitted through the judicial process.”
