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Georgia cop kills beloved pet donkey in his own pasture as heartbroken owner demands justice: 'We miss him'

Fox News·9/1/2026, 6:47:27 AM
Georgia cop kills beloved pet donkey in his own pasture as heartbroken owner demands justice: 'We miss him'

A Georgia family is demanding justice after police fatally shot their beloved pet donkey, HeeHaw, while searching for a missing child who was later found.

AI-Expanded SummaryOriginal reporting by Fox News

A beloved family pet is dead, gunned down by law enforcement in its own pasture – and the owner is demanding answers!

COPS SHOOT BELOVED DONKEY DEAD

In a shocking incident that has left a Georgia family devastated, a police officer fatally shot a pet donkey after officers entered the family's property in the dead of night. The officers claimed they were searching for a missing child, but the animal's owner says the tragedy was entirely avoidable.

The donkey, affectionately known as HeeHaw, was reportedly killed after approaching the officers. The owner stated that HeeHaw was simply doing what donkeys do: alerting to strangers. Now, the family is demanding justice for their "son," who they say was a cherished member of their household.

OFFICERS ENTER PROPERTY UNANNOUNCED

The heartbreaking event unfolded when officers entered Hannah Israel's property around 12:45 a.m. on a Sunday. They were allegedly searching for a missing child who was later found safe at a nearby church. Israel claims officers entered her land without warning.

According to Israel, officers attempted to Taze HeeHaw before shooting him. She insists the donkey was in his own pasture and posed no threat, only reacting naturally to the intrusion.

DEMAND FOR JUSTICE ERUPTS

Heartbroken owner Hannah Israel is vowing to pursue legal action. She shared her grief online, calling HeeHaw "my SON!!" and expressing disbelief that he was killed in his own home. Photos show Israel weeping over her lifeless pet, his eyes wide open in a final, tragic image.

HeeHaw was known for his playful nature and affectionate personality, even sleeping in Israel's bed for the first three months of his life. Now, a GoFundMe has been established to cover legal costs and support the farm, with donations pouring in from a shocked public.

OFFICER PLACED ON LEAVE

The Cedartown Police Department has confirmed the officer involved has been placed on paid administrative leave. An investigation into the shooting has been launched by the Georgia Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Division. Police Chief Jamie Newsom acknowledged the "very unfortunate and heartbreaking event" and expressed his own grief.

FAITH LENS

This tragic loss reminds us of the preciousness of life, both human and animal, and the profound grief that follows its unjust taking. As we navigate a world where even the innocent can fall victim to error or force, we are called to uphold justice, seek truth, and offer compassion, remembering the biblical principle to "act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Read full story at Fox News

"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

— John 8:32