Escaped mules killed in accident months after delivering Helene disaster aid

Vader, Amigo and Kev were hit by cars after escaping their enclosure fence, Mountain Mule Packer Ranch owners said in a social media post.

MOUNT ULLA, N.C. — Three mules that helped deliver supplies to Helene victims in western North Carolina were killed by cars after escaping their pasture, Mountain Mule Packer Ranch owners said in a social media post.

After Helene isolated western North Carolina communities with landslides, flash flooding and road damage, the team of mules and their handlers trekked through mountainous terrain to deliver much-needed supplies.

In one of their missions, the Mountain Mule Packer Ranch partnered with the Cajun Navy, another group of civilian volunteers, to deliver insulin to a family.

Three of these mules – named Vader, Amigo and Kev – were hit by cars after escaping their enclosure fence on Sunday.

“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,” the owners said.

A fallen tree had damaged the fence, which allowed them to get out.

“Vader, Kev, and Amigo will always be mules of honor in our hearts and we are ready to carry on their work,” the post said.

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