Georgia Officer Shoots Donkey During Missing-Child Search

A beloved baby donkey named HeeHaw was shot and killed by a Cedartown, Georgia police officer during a nighttime search for a missing child on the Elsberry Riding and Farm, prompting an independent probe. The shooting allegedly occurred after officers entered the pasture and tasered HeeHaw as he brayed and approached, though exact details remain under investigation. The Cedartown Police Department says the involved officer is on paid administrative leave and has stated that body-cam footage exists but will not discuss its contents while the state investigation proceeds. The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Law Enforcement Division is conducting the independent investigation, with officials saying comments are not available due to the ongoing inquiry. HeeHaw’s owner, Hannah Israel, has launched fundraising and plans for a HeeHaw foundation to support her farm and animal care, explaining the donkey was raised in the home and became a family member who helped bring joy to many. The case has reignited discussion about police use of force in rural settings and the need for transparency as investigators review the events that led to the killing.