The Nassau SPCA is investigating a pellet gun shooting of a federally and state-protected bird in Valley Stream

A black-crowned night heron, nicknamed Tyrone, was shot in the chest and suffered a broken wing in two locations.

Investigators with the Nassau County SPCA say an eyewitness heard three or four shots fired Sunday night at about 6:30 p.m.

News 12 has learned that the eyewitness saw a man standing outside with some sort of pistol in his hand. He then saw a large bird fall from a tree. The eyewitness called 911 and police were able to track down the suspect.

The suspect has vehemently denied any involvement.