Full Breakdown
Fatal Shooting of Donkey HeeHaw During Police Search
8/31/2026, 2:55:06 AM
Investigation and Administrative Action
Police Chief Jamie Newsome announced that members of the Cedartown Police Department’s command staff have opened an investigation into the incident. The officer who fired the fatal shot has not been publicly identified and has been placed on administrative leave while the inquiry proceeds. The investigation concerns an overnight search of private pasture conducted by officers from the Cedartown Police Department and the Polk County Police Department.
Statements from Law-Enforcement Agencies
The agency did not provide further details about why the animal was perceived as a threat. No additional information about the officer’s identity or the justification for using deadly force has been released.
Owner and Community Response
According to a Facebook post from Elsberry Riding and Farm, law-enforcement officers entered the pasture at approximately 12:45 a.m. without the owner’s permission. The post alleges the donkey, named HeeHaw, ran toward the officers while braying, that officers first attempted to use a Taser, and that an officer subsequently shot and killed the animal. The farm’s owners described HeeHaw as a beloved family member who participated in petting zoos and brought joy to many people. A GoFundMe campaign was created to cover legal fees related to the incident.
Open Questions and Ongoing Inquiry
Authorities have not disclosed why officers deemed the donkey a threat or why lethal force was deemed necessary after an attempted Taser deployment. The lack of an identified officer and the absence of a detailed justification leave the community awaiting the results of the internal investigation. Further updates are expected once the command staff completes its review.
