Donkey shot, killed in Polk County; Cedartown police officer on leave

POLK COUNTY, Ga. – A Cedartown police officer has been placed on administrative leave after a donkey was fatally shot in Polk County on Sunday. 

What we know:

Cedartown Police Chief Jamie Newsome said command staff launched an investigation into the shooting, placing an unidentified officer on administrative leave. 

Elsberry Riding and Farm posted on Facebook that law enforcement searched the property’s pasture around 12:45 a.m. Sunday without the owner’s permission. 

The post claimed officers stated the donkey, named HeeHaw, ran up to them braying before they tried to tase him and then shot him dead. 

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office confirmed its agency was not involved in the shooting, noting the incident involved officers from the Polk County Police Department and the Cedartown Police Department. 

“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 Polk County Sheriff’s Office said. 

What we don’t know:

Officials have not released the identity of the officer who fired the fatal shot or detailed why the animal was perceived as a threat. The City of Cedartown said it is aware of the incident but will not release further information at this time due to the active investigation.  

What you can do:

HeeHaw’s owner has set up a GoFundMe for legal fees tied to 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. 

To view the GoFundMe, click here.