An Ohio woman died Wednesday evening after being attacked by a deer on her family’s property in Belmont County, authorities said. Jodi Proger,was found with fatal injuries after becoming trapped in an enclosure with a buck.
The Belmont County Sheriff’s office responded to a call around 10:30 p.m. on November 15th, reporting an animal attack. Family members informed deputies that Proger had been inside a pen with the deer when it became aggressive. They attempted to intervene and subdue the animal before law enforcement arrived. While deer-related fatalities are rare, this incident highlights the potential dangers of keeping wild animals, even those raised in captivity, and underscores the importance of secure enclosures. The Ohio Department of Natural resources and the ohio Department of Agriculture are assisting in the ongoing investigation.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies shot and killed the deer to secure the scene, allowing first responders to reach Proger. She was pronounced dead at the scene.The coroner’s office is assisting with the investigation, but authorities currently suspect no foul play.
While deer are frequently involved in vehicle collisions – accounting for a significant number of animal-related injuries and deaths in the U.S. – attacks on humans are uncommon. The National Deer Association notes that such incidents typically occur when deer are feeling threatened,sick,injured,or confined. Experts say a deer that feels trapped may react defensively and aggressively.
