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Veterinarian’s Death Officially Ruled Suicide Following Viral Animal Abuse Video

Dr. Shawn Frehner's drowning at Lake Mead was confirmed as suicide, with pentobarbital—a common euthanasia drug—cited as a contributing factor.

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Overview

  • The Clark County Coroner confirmed Dr. Shawn Frehner's death as a suicide by drowning, with self-administered pentobarbital contributing.
  • Frehner, 56, disappeared on April 6 after a video showing him kicking a horse went viral, sparking public outrage and legal scrutiny.
  • His abandoned truck, containing his wallet, keys, and phone, was found near Lake Mead's Hemenway Harbor on April 7, prompting a large-scale search.
  • Authorities recovered his body near the Boulder Islands on April 18, and his identity was confirmed through dental records the following day.
  • The case highlights the intersection of professional accountability, public backlash, and mental health challenges under intense societal pressure.