A tragic incident in rural Ohio has left a family in mourning and stirred a firestorm of speculation over the deer that killed a beloved animal rescuer.

Jodi Proger, 64, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, was killed on Nov. 15 inside a deer enclosure on her Stewartsville property, prompting an investigation and widespread debate about which animal was involved in the deadly mauling, as the New York Post reports.

Proger had dedicated more than a decade to rescuing injured and orphaned deer after a heartbreaking encounter in 2013 spurred her life’s mission. After witnessing a fatal car crash involving a doe, she stepped in to save a nearby fawn, later naming him Wheezer. That fawn became the first of several animals she would care for on her 5-acre property under permits provided by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

Over the years, Proger built an enclosure on her land to rehabilitate her rescued deer, which included both males and females. Wheezer, neutered per ODNR requirements, quickly became a staple of local lore, often featured on Proger’s social media, where he could be seen lounging indoors or dressed up for the holidays alongside Proger and her grandchildren.

Family photos depict a strong bond between Proger, her family, and the animals she nurtured. In one image, her grandchild is captured giving a deer a gentle kiss -- a testament to how closely the rehabilitator lived with the wildlife she took in.

Deadly Attack During Routine Animal Care

The fatal incident occurred on the morning of Nov. 15, when Proger entered an enclosure near her home. According to investigators, she was attacked by a buck and was found unresponsive when authorities arrived at the scene.

Belmont County police had to shoot an aggressive male deer to reach Proger’s body. The name of the animal involved in the attack has not been confirmed, though rampant public speculation and online theories quickly pointed to Wheezer.

However, Proger’s daughter, Jennifer Bryan, has strongly denied that Wheezer was responsible. In a Facebook post, Bryan stated, “Wheezer DID NOT kill my mom,” and emphasized that her mother understood the potential dangers of working with wild animals.

Family Stresses Mother Took Proper Precautions

Bryan also reminded the public that Proger’s work was done legally and with the state’s oversight. She maintained that the deer Proger kept were cared for by the book and noted that Wheezer had been neutered as part of her mother’s permit compliance with ODNR.

“My mom knew the dangers of owning deer,” Bryan wrote. “She worked within Belmont County to rescue and aid [sic] many animals over her lifespan.” She also urged the public to let the family grieve without being bombarded by misinformation or accusations.

The ODNR and the Ohio Department of Agriculture are now investigating Proger’s death. The Belmont County Police Department, which responded to the scene, has not provided public comment at this time.

Powerful Wild Animals Can Turn Deadly

Male white-tailed deer, like those Proger cared for, can reach substantial size. The National Park Service reports that these deer may grow up to three feet tall at the shoulder and weigh as much as 300 pounds.

Though often seen in backyards or feeding in open fields, deer can become aggressive, particularly during the mating season known as the rut. Their antlers, strong hooves, and territorial nature pose serious risks even to seasoned wildlife handlers.

Lessons to Learn

Several key takeaways from this dangerous and ultimately heartbreaking situation can help others stay informed and cautious when it comes to animals and personal safety:

1. Even experienced caregivers face danger: As Proger’s daughter stated, she was aware of the risks associated with her animals. This shows that training and licensing, while critical, can’t always prevent tragedy.

2. Male deer during rutting season can be aggressive: The presence of an aggressive buck, which authorities had to neutralize, underscores how unpredictable deer behavior can become during specific times of year.

3. Respect wildlife boundaries: Although Proger’s life was devoted to rescue and care, the general public should remember that deer and similar animals are not domesticated pets. Interacting with wild animals without proper knowledge can be extremely dangerous.

No matter the precautions taken, accidents and crime can happen to anyone. Victims should never be blamed for choosing compassion or following their calling, and Proger’s journey stands as proof of that.

Why This Story Matters

Proger’s death is a solemn reminder of the intense bond some individuals form with wildlife in need -- and the unpredictable cost such bonds can sometimes carry. This story matters because it forces a closer look at regulation, education, and the risks involved in private animal caregiving.

As officers, agencies, and loved ones search for answers, the community must decide how best to respond and what steps, if any, should be taken to enhance oversight or improve public understanding of human-wildlife interaction.