Deputies with the Belmont County, Ohio Sheriff’s Office will sadly have to live the rest of their lives wondering if they could have somehow done things differently and saved a deer owner’s life.
From a statement by Sheriff James Zusack: “On November 15, 2025, at approximately 10:27 pm, deputies with the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the Proger residence in Stewartsville regarding a reported animal attack. Upon arrival, deputies were advised by family members that the victim, identified as Jodi Proger, appeared to be trapped in a pen with a male deer that was being kept at the residence. The animal appeared to have attacked Ms Proger.”
“Family members attempted to intervene and dispatch the animal prior to the arrival of law enforcement to reach the victim; however, the animal was ultimately dispatched by responding deputies to ensure scene safety. Tragically, Ms Proger succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Belmont County Coroner’s Office was subsequently contacted to assist. No foul play is suspected in this matter. The Belmont County Sheriff’s Office has notified the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) of the incident. ODNR officials are currently communicating with the Ohio Department of Agriculture regarding the matter.”