Justice for HeeHaw: Investigation Launched After Beloved Donkey Is Shot by Georgia Police

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

The heartbreaking incident happened around 12:45 a.m. on August 30 at Elsberry Riding and Farm in Rockmart.

The missing child was later found safely, but for HeeHaw’s family, that night ended with an unimaginable loss.

HeeHaw Was More Than a Donkey

HeeHaw had been bottle-raised by his owner, Hannah Israel, and was deeply loved by her family.

Israel said he was friendly, affectionate and comfortable around people. He had even participated in petting zoos and was known for interacting with visitors.

To the family, HeeHaw was not simply an animal on their property.

He was family.

Israel described him as her “son” and said her home and farm no longer felt the same without him.

What Happened That Night?

According to the family’s account, officers entered the property while searching for the missing child.

Israel said HeeHaw approached the officers while braying after encountering strangers in his pasture.

She said officers believed they were in danger and attempted to use a Taser before the donkey was shot.

The circumstances surrounding the encounter remain under investigation, and the family has strongly questioned whether the situation could have been handled differently.

Officer Placed on Leave

The Cedartown Police Department confirmed that the officer involved was placed on paid administrative leave.

An investigation was launched into the shooting, with authorities reviewing the circumstances surrounding what happened.

At this stage, no final determination has been announced about whether the officer’s actions were justified.

A Family Wants Justice

Israel has said she is devastated by the loss and is seeking answers about why her beloved donkey never came home.

The family has also received an outpouring of support from people who were touched by HeeHaw’s story.

A fundraising effort was launched to help the family with legal expenses and the care of their remaining animals.

But for Israel, no amount of support can replace HeeHaw.

She raised him from an early age, watched him become part of the family and believed she would have many more years with him.

Remembering HeeHaw

Now, instead of watching HeeHaw grow, his family is left with photographs, videos and memories of the gentle animal they loved.

They want the investigation to provide a clear account of what happened that night.

They want transparency.

They want accountability.

And most of all, they want HeeHaw to be remembered as more than a headline.

He was a beloved animal who had a family waiting for him at home.

As the investigation continues, that family is asking for one thing:

Justice for HeeHaw. 💔