A police officer in Rockmart, Georgia, is currently on leave after shooting and killing a pet donkey named HeeHaw during a search operation. The incident occurred around 12:45 a.m. on Sunday at the Elsberry farm. According to the animal's owner, Hannah Israel, officers arrived on the property without prior notification or permission while searching for a missing person.

Israel stated that the donkey, which she raised from a bottle, approached the officers while braying. The officer involved in the shooting claimed he felt threatened by the animal before discharging his weapon. The family has publicly demanded answers regarding the circumstances of the encounter and the necessity of the lethal force used against their pet.

While both sources confirm the officer was placed on leave and the donkey was killed, the outlets differ in their focus. The Independent emphasizes the emotional connection between the family and the animal, framing the story as a grievance against police conduct. The Guardian provides more procedural context, noting the officer's current employment status and the specific context of the police search for a missing person. There is currently no official statement from the police department detailing the specific threat assessment made by the officer at the time of the shooting.