A Georgia family is grieving after their 12-year-old son's beloved therapy pig was allegedly shot and killed by neighbors who intended to eat the animal. The incident has left the community in shock and sparked outrage.
Heartbreaking Loss for Young Boy
Garrett Cox, 12, relied on his 400-pound hog named Bootsy to help manage his ADHD and autism. The two were inseparable, with Garrett devoting himself to feeding, bathing, and playing with Bootsy in their backyard. According to his mother, Kerrie Cox, Bootsy provided comfort and purpose, boosting Garrett's confidence significantly.
Shooting and Discovery
The tragedy unfolded last week when Bootsy escaped from her pen at the family's home in Hoschton, a rural town about 50 miles northeast of Atlanta. Garrett's father, Matt Cox, heard a gunshot and followed the sound to a neighbor's property. There, he found Bootsy dead beside a pot of boiling water, surrounded by neighbors wearing aprons. The family believes the neighbors planned to eat the pig.
Kerrie Cox confronted one of the neighbors, asking, 'Why would you do this? You knew she was our pig,' but was met with laughter and derision.
Arrests and Charges
Police arrested three individuals in connection with the case: Mai Kia Vang-Moua, 54, Maysy Moua, 59, and Kee Moua, 33. All face aggravated animal cruelty charges. The suspects told investigators they thought the pig was wild, but the Cox family disputes this, noting that Bootsy had a livestock ear tag clearly identifying her as a farm animal.
Matt Cox stated that Bootsy appeared to have been restrained before being shot at close range, with a bloodied rope found beside her body.
Impact on the Family
Garrett has been devastated by the loss. 'I miss her so much,' he told local media. The family has buried Bootsy near the barn where she lived. If convicted, each suspect could face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
