Dr. Shawn Frehner, a 56-year-old veterinarian from Las Vegas, was found dead in Lake Mead on April 18, weeks after a disturbing video showed him kicking a horse in the face. Authorities discovered his abandoned truck and belongings near the lake before confirming his identity on April 21.
The video, recorded by client Shawna Gonzalez, captured Frehner assaulting her horse, Big Red, during a procedure. “He wrapped the horse around his neck three times, and he kicked him in the head,” Gonzalez told 8NewsNow. Big Red suffered severe head injuries requiring extensive care.
Nevada vet Shawn Frehner found dead in Lake Mead shortly after viral video showed him kicking a horse.pic.twitter.com/NZpvtfV56c
— Department of Government Efficiency News (@DOGE__news) April 22, 2025
Facing felony animal abuse charges, Frehner apologized on Facebook, writing, “I did kick him right in the chin, and I very much do apologize and wish this never happened.”
Gonzalez expressed sorrow over Frehner’s death, stating, “This is not what I wanted in the end at all.” The investigation into the circumstances of his death remains ongoing.