Three of the Mountain Mules in North Carolina killed in Accident

Threadreaderapp.com ^ | February 09, 2025 | Matt Van Swol

[Red Badger]

I have some sad news.

This morning, three of the Mountain Mules, who became famous for carrying supplies through the mountain passes of Western North Carolina to Hurricane Helene victims, have tragically passed away.

Rest in Peace: Vader, Amigo, and Kev

According to news reports, a tree fell on the fence that was holding the mules. They escaped and were struck in the road.

Full statement is below:

We could not be more heartbroken over this incredible loss, and it is with great pain that we share it with you, as we know many of you have also fallen in love with these sweet animals.

We will forever honor them for their faithful, loyal, and honorable service to others as they were used in training of some of the finest military members our country has, and especially the countless hours of work they have done to help so many families affected by Hurricane Helene. Besides their service, they were more importantly a part of our family, and loved.

Please pray for us at Mountain Mule Packers and Mission Mules as we cope with this terrible loss while continuing to go forward in their honor. We know that God can comfort us and show us the way going forward.

- Mountain Mule Packers • • •

[left that other site]

Sorry to hear this. ☹️

[mairdie]

Heartbreaking.

[vaskypilot]

An awful way to go.

[Ann Archy]

Are we SURE they weren’t KILLED by a LEFTY?

[b4me]

I can understand them getting out if fence broken, but 3 getting hit? seems odd. we have large farm animals get loose in my area at times but rarely hear of them getting hit.

[KrisKrinkle]

How were three mules killed in the road? What hit them?

[glorgau]

> were struck in the road

Notice the passive wording. It just sort of happened out of nowhere. Were the vehicles that struck them on full self drive?

[Mathews]

Probably a semi.

[Joe 6-pack]

Three pack animals who did far more to bring relief, aid and comfort to American disaster victims than the sitting POTUS at the time.

The Donkey

When fishes flew and forests walked
And figs grew upon thorn,
Some moment when the moon was blood
Then surely I was born.

With monstrous head and sickening cry
And ears like errant wings,
The devil’s walking parody
On all four-footed things.

The tattered outlaw of the earth,
Of ancient crooked will;
Starve, scourge, deride me: I am dumb,
I keep my secret still.

Fools! For I also had my hour;
One far fierce hour and sweet:
There was a shout about my ears,
And palms before my feet.

~G.K. Chesterton

[kelly4c]

Yes how do all three mules get hit and killed? They are rather large animals and easy to avoid. Was it one drunken speeder that mowed them down as they walked in single file? Very sad.

[bunkerhill7]

They are in Hoofer Heaven.

[ridesthemiles]

ANY snail mail address available for donations????

[Red Badger]

https://mountainmulepackers.com/mission-mules-our-new-nonprofit/

Address
Mountain Mule Packer Ranch

775 Grampian Rd #653
PO Box 653
Mount Ulla, NC 28125

Contact
704-677-4685

Info@MountainMulePackers.com

Mike@MountainMulePackers.com

https://mountainmulepackers.com/wnc-donations/