The Cedartown Police Department is investigating an incident in which a donkey was fatally shot by a law enforcement officer during an overnight search of private property.
Police Chief Jamie Newsome said members of the department’s command staff have opened an investigation into the shooting. The officer involved has not been publicly identified and has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation is conducted.
According to a Facebook post from Elsberry Riding and Farm, law enforcement officers entered the property’s pasture at approximately 12:45 a.m. Sunday without the owner’s permission. The farm identified the donkey as HeeHaw and alleged that the animal approached officers while braying. The post claims officers attempted to use a Taser on the donkey before one officer ultimately shot and killed him.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office said its deputies were not involved in the shooting. The agency clarified that officers from the Polk County Police Department and the Cedartown Police Department were involved in the incident.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the family and everyone affected by this unfortunate incident. We understand the concern and sadness surrounding what occurred,” the Sheriff’s Office said.
Authorities have not released the identity of the officer who fired the fatal shot. Officials also have not provided details explaining what prompted officers to view HeeHaw as a threat or why deadly force was used.
HeeHaw’s owners have described him as a beloved member of their family who participated in petting zoos and brought joy to many people.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help the family cover legal expenses associated with the incident.
“He was a loved member of our family and did many petting zoos and made many people smile,” the fundraiser’s organizer wrote.The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information is expected to be released as authorities determine what occurred.
