Area News

Warren County Sheriff’s Office Continues Search for Two Predatory Dogs Near Kirkwood

The Warren County Sheriff’s Office reports that intensive efforts to locate two large dogs believed to be running at large near Kirkwood have not yet been successful. Deputies continue active patrols in the area, and officials are urging residents to report any sightings immediately.

The dogs are described as a black Pitbull with a white chest and a black Cane Corso. They are considered predatory, and authorities have been coordinating a multi-agency response since late May.

On the morning of Friday, May 29, 2026, the Sheriff’s Office launched a coordinated ground search southeast of Kirkwood near South Henderson Creek. The search zone stretched west to east from approximately 50th Street to near US 67, and south to north from roughly 140th Avenue to 160th Avenue.

Later that same day at 5:30 AM, a more concentrated search was conducted along South Henderson Creek and 150th Avenue between 40th Street and 60th Street with assistance from Illinois State Police air support. No dogs were located during the aerial and ground sweeps.

A team of experienced predator control volunteers was scheduled to conduct night surveillance on Friday, May 29, and Saturday, May 30. 

The Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that this volunteer team has been fully coordinated and mobilized. As of the latest update on May 31, patrols continue, and the office is also working closely with the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office due to the proximity of the county line.

Residents are strongly encouraged to report any sightings of the dogs immediately to the Monmouth Dispatch Center at 309-734-8383. 

Officials ask the public to stay out of the active search areas, refrain from conducting independent searches, and avoid flying drones in the area, as these activities could interfere with operations.

The Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as developments occur.