Outrage Over Viral Video Leads to Search for Missing Las Vegas Vet

In a striking turn of events, Dr. Shawn D. Frehner, a seasoned Las Vegas veterinarian, has gone missing near Lake Mead following the emergence of a controversial video. The footage, which rapidly gained traction online, appears to depict Dr. Frehner kicking a horse in the face during a medical procedure. This incident has ignited widespread outrage and prompted an animal cruelty investigation by the Nye County Sheriff’s Office.

Dr. Frehner, who has dedicated over two decades to veterinary medicine, was reportedly administering anesthetic injections to horses at a property in Pahrump. Property owner Shawna Gonzalez claims she witnessed the distressing act and subsequently filed a complaint, leading to the ongoing investigation.

In response to the backlash, Dr. Frehner issued a statement asserting that the video was taken out of context, explaining that his actions were intended to reposition the horse for its safety. He expressed remorse, stating, “I did not blatantly haul off and kick this horse as it appears in the video… I very much do apologize and wish this never happened.”

Family members have indicated that the intense online harassment stemming from the video’s circulation deeply affected Dr. Frehner, potentially contributing to his disappearance. A coordinated search effort involving the National Park Service, Las Vegas Metro Police, and Red Rock Search and Rescue is underway, utilizing aerial, marine, and ground resources to locate him.

This incident underscores the profound impact of social media on personal and professional lives. It raises critical questions about the balance between public accountability and the potential for online platforms to become arenas for undue harassment. As the search for Dr. Frehner continues, the community is left to ponder: In our pursuit of justice, how do we ensure that due process is upheld without resorting to digital vigilantism?