On Sunday night, police officers entered the Israel family’s property in Rockmart, Polk County, at about 12:45 a.m. while searching for a missing autistic teenager who was later located at a nearby church. While on the premises, the officers encountered the family’s baby donkey, HeeHaw, who ran up to them braying.

According to the family’s Facebook posts, the officers claimed they felt threatened and first attempted to use a Taser before shooting the animal. The donkey was killed in its own pasture, leaving the family devastated. “He was my son,” owner Hannah Israel wrote, describing the deep bond she shared with HeeHaw, who had even slept in her bed during his first three months of life.

Police response and investigation

The Cedartown Police Department announced that the officer involved has been placed on paid administrative leave. The department turned the case over to the Georgia Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Division for a formal investigation. Police Chief Jamie Newsom confirmed that body‑camera footage exists and that he has reviewed it, describing the incident as “very unfortunate and heartbreaking.” He expressed empathy for the family, noting that they are “members of the human family, and I am too, and heartbroken.”

Legal action and community support

Israel has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover legal expenses related to the incident, raising more than $113,000. She indicated that any remaining funds will support the farm’s animals and a future HeeHaw foundation. The family has retained counsel and plans to pursue legal action against the officer and the department.

The incident has sparked concern among local residents about police procedures during emergency searches and the treatment of animals on private property. Community members are watching the state investigation closely, hoping for accountability and clearer guidelines to prevent similar tragedies.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.