Georgia Police Officer Placed on Leave After Beloved Donkey HeeHaw Is Shot During Missing-Child Search

ROCKMART, GEORGIA — A Georgia family is demanding answers after their beloved one-year-old donkey, HeeHaw, was shot by a police officer during an overnight search for a missing child.

The incident happened around 12:45 a.m. at Elsberry Riding and Farm, where officers had entered the property while searching for the child. The child was later found safely.

The officer involved has since been placed on paid administrative leave while the circumstances are investigated.

HeeHaw Was Considered Part of the Family

For owner Hannah Israel, HeeHaw was far more than a farm animal.

She said she bottle-raised him from about an hour after he was born and described him as an affectionate, friendly donkey who was comfortable around people.

HeeHaw had even participated in petting zoos, where he interacted with children and families.

Israel said he would often run toward people while braying because he was curious and loved attention.

“He was my son,” she said while mourning the animal.

What Happened During the Search?

According to Israel’s account, officers entered the pasture while searching for the missing child. She said HeeHaw approached them while braying.

The family claims officers believed the donkey was a threat and attempted to use a Taser before the shooting.

Police have provided a different account of the encounter, saying the animal’s behavior caused officers to believe they were in danger.

The precise circumstances remain under investigation, and officials have not announced a final determination about whether the officer’s actions were justified.

Officer Placed on Administrative Leave

The Cedartown Police Department has placed the officer on paid administrative leave and turned the investigation over to the Georgia Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Division.

Police Chief Jamie Newsome has confirmed that body-camera footage exists and that he has viewed it, but officials have declined to publicly discuss what the footage shows while the investigation continues.

Family Says They Want Justice

Israel has vowed to pursue legal action and launched a fundraising campaign to help cover legal expenses.

The story has also sparked widespread public reaction, with supporters demanding answers about why the encounter ended with HeeHaw being shot.

The fundraiser quickly attracted tens of thousands of dollars as people rallied behind Israel and her family.

A Tragic Ending to a Search for a Missing Child

The original police operation was focused on finding a missing child, who was ultimately located safely.

But for Israel, the night ended with the loss of an animal she had raised almost from birth.

As the independent investigation continues, investigators are expected to examine the officers’ actions, available footage and the circumstances leading up to the shooting.

For a family still grieving HeeHaw, the hope is that the investigation will finally answer the question that continues to haunt them: could the encounter have ended differently?