Michael Skvarla of Port Matilda used a crossbow on September 15 to take an 8-by-8 bull estimated at 900 pounds. Early scoring of 428 inches gross and 395 net placed the animal among Pennsylvania archery record contenders after he received one of 15 bull tags from more than 50,000 applicants.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission issued citations on October 7 to Mike Conaway and Abner Druckenmiller, both linked to Trophy Rack Lodge, for alleged trespassing in Centre County after a Snow Shoe Township landowner said the group lacked permission. Skvarla was not charged, as officials indicated he did not know and depended on the guides; the two men pleaded not guilty and appear in court November 19.

Antlers must dry 60 days before an official score, and a commission scorer said law-enforcement guidance is required on whether the case affects record eligibility.