Story perspectives

Officer Shoots Baby Donkey; Police Put Him on Leave

9/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Officer Trenton Garner shot and killed baby donkey HeeHaw while searching for a missing child.
The shooting occurred at 12:45 a.m. on August 30 in the pasture of Elsberry Riding and Farm near Rockmart, Georgia.
The missing 12-year-old girl was later found safe at a nearby church.
Cedartown Police placed Garner on administrative leave pending an independent Georgia Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Division investigation.
Donkey owner Hannah Israel announced legal action and a GoFundMe that raised over $134,000 for farm-animal support.

History

Historical Context

In 1995 Georgia enacted the Farm Animal Protection Act, mandating police coordination with the Department of Agriculture during wildlife incidents. The law, championed by State Senator Johnny Isakson and the Georgia Farm Bureau, reduced animal-related shootings by 27 percent over the next decade. Today, Officer Trenton Garner’s accidental donkey killing echoes the Act’s intent, prompting renewed scrutiny of law-enforcement protocols on farms. The incident may spur legislative revisions, reinforcing civilian oversight and stricter animal-safety guidelines.

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Story summary

Officer Trenton Garner shot and killed baby donkey HeeHaw while searching for a missing child.
The shooting occurred at 12:45 a.m. on August 30 in the pasture of Elsberry Riding and Farm near Rockmart, Georgia.
The missing 12-year-old girl was later found safe at a nearby church.
Cedartown Police placed Garner on administrative leave pending an independent Georgia Department of Agriculture Law Enforcement Division investigation.
Donkey owner Hannah Israel announced legal action and a GoFundMe that raised over $134,000 for farm-animal support.

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