SCDNR: Hunter charged after pet donkey shot, killed in Anderson Co.
19/12/2026
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) said a hunter has been charged after a pet donkey was shot and killed on Sunday.
SCDNR said officers were called to a property in Anderson County after a report of a hunting incident involving a pet donkey named Angelique.
According to officials, the hunter said he fired a gun at a deer but missed and the stray bullet hit the donkey.
Joann, founder of Hasty’s Haven where Angelique lived, said the donkey’s death feels like a nightmare and that her entire team is traumatized.
“Angelique came to us several years ago, along with her other 3 herd members,” the rescue said. “They were previously therapy donkeys for special needs children. Angelique and her herd are our little event donkeys and we use them for education in the community and with our home school volunteers. They’re always the first to greet everyone with their welcoming, gentle nature.”
As a result of the investigation, SCDNR said the hunter was charged with negligent use of a firearm and hunting within 300 yards of a residence.
“This unfortunate incident serves as an important safety reminder,” SCDNR said. “Hunters must always positively identify their target, be aware of what lies beyond it, and ensure they are shooting in a safe direction.”