Georgia police officer suspended after shooting donkey

Authorities in Georgia have launched an independent investigation into the shooting death of a domestic donkey named ‘HeeHaw’ by a police officer. The incident occurred on August 30 near Rockmart while officers were searching for a missing 12-year-old girl, who was later found safe.

According to police reports, the officer shot the animal because he felt threatened and believed the donkey was about to charge the search team. An attempt to use a taser on the animal reportedly preceded the fatal shots. The involved officer has been suspended from duty pending the results of the investigation, which includes a review of bodycam footage.

The donkey’s owner, Hannah Israel of Elsberry Riding and Farm, disputes the police account. She stated that the officers entered the pasture without permission and that the donkey was simply reacting to strangers by braying. Israel described the animal as a gentle creature that had been raised by hand and frequently participated in educational zoo programs.