A beloved grandmother, Jodi Proger, lost her life in a tragic incident involving a deer she had been caring for at her home in Stewartsville, Ohio. Proger, 64, had dedicated over a decade rehabilitating whitetail deer on her property until the unfortunate event on November 15 when she was fatally injured by a buck inside an enclosure.
Law enforcement had to intervene by shooting the deer to access Proger, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The specific details of her injuries have not been disclosed publicly.
Proger’s involvement in deer rescue began in 2013 after she rescued a fawn whose mother was killed in a car accident. Despite facing challenges from state authorities, Proger successfully kept the fawn, named Wheezer, and expanded her efforts to save other deer in need.
Describing Wheezer as akin to a big dog, Proger shared a close bond with him, often showcasing their companionship on social media with images of him enjoying domestic life at her residence. She also provided sanctuary to several other deer on her property.
While the exact deer responsible for Proger’s death has not been confirmed, her daughter clarified that Wheezer, who had been neutered as per regulations, was not involved. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Proger’s family emphasized that she was experienced in caring for deer and understood the risks involved. They requested privacy and respect during this difficult time as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Ohio Department of Agriculture conduct investigations into the tragic event.
