Grandma Mauled to Death by Deer She Rescued, and the Animal Has Now Been Killed by Police

Grandma tragically killed by a deer she had rescued

An Ohio woman, Jodi Proger, met a tragic end when a deer she had rescued attacked her on her property. The incident occurred in Stewartsville on a Saturday evening, prompting a call to the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office. According to Sheriff James Zusack, Proger, 64, was trapped in an enclosure with a male deer she was trying to rehabilitate, which suddenly turned aggressive. Despite family members attempting to intervene and dispatch the animal, it tragically led to Proger’s demise.

Deputies had to take decisive action by shooting the deer to ensure the safety of the scene and reach Proger, who was pronounced dead on the spot. The Belmont County Coroner’s Office was involved in the investigation, concluding that there was no foul play involved in the incident. Proger’s dedication to rescuing injured deer was well-known, with her obituary stating that she had been inspired by a deer named Wheezer, whom she rescued 12 years ago.

Proger had nurtured Wheezer, a fawn orphaned after its mother was killed in a car accident, and raised him alongside her family and other animals. Wheezer had become an integral part of their household, even watching TV and mingling with their pets. Proger’s passion for animal rescue and advocacy became more pronounced after her experience with Wheezer, leading her to provide care and resources to injured animals in need.

Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding Proger’s death, her daughter clarified that the deer responsible for the attack was not Wheezer, as he had been neutered as per state requirements. Proger’s family had been aware of the risks of keeping deer as pets, given her 12 years of experience in rescuing and caring for these animals. The emotional toll of the incident was evident, especially with Proger’s husband recovering from a work accident in the ICU at that time.

Following the heartbreaking loss of Proger, her daughter Jennifer Bryan shared the devastating events that unfolded on that fateful night. From the frantic search for Proger to the heart-wrenching moment of informing her husband of the tragedy, the family’s grief was palpable. Proger leaves behind not only a grieving family but also a legacy of compassion and dedication to animal welfare.

The tragic death of Jodi Proger serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. Despite her best intentions and years of experience, the unforeseen attack by the deer she sought to help resulted in a devastating outcome. The community mourns the loss of a dedicated animal lover and emphasises the importance of understanding the complexities and dangers associated with caring for wild animals.