I don't think anyone is giving a definitive answer on what took place...it's quite obvious that we weren't there and don't know the truth behind the rack. Just some hunters on a forum talking about what they think might have happened.

In my opinion, the condition of the rack is not typical (after laying around for several months) for this part of the country...but, anything is possible I guess.

The orange check station tag still kills me. Didn't know county check stations were open past the deer season. If he did have special provisions from the IDNR, I find it odd that they would have given him an orange tag...but again, I don't know for sure and it may be for taxidermy reasons. Has anyone in IL ever turned in a deer that they hit along side of the road? And if so, did the state police or IDNR issue you an orange "check-in" tag?