When Donkeys Attack!

Mayor dead after apparent donkey attack

WOAI.COM HOLLYWOOD PARK, Texas -- A South Texas mayor has been found dead after apparently being attacked by a 500-pound donkey on his ranch.

The Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office said Wednesday that the death of Hollywood Park Mayor William “Bill” Bohlke appears to be an accident. Bohlke was 65.

Chief Deputy David Soward says Bohlke apparently was attacked Monday morning by a male, aggressive donkey he kept on the ranch.

Investigators say the donkey and several others are still on the property with other livestock.

"He loved his animals. He loved ranching," said Sandra Wilson.

According to the neighbor, Bohlke's wife was concerned when he didn't return to Hollywood Park after checking on his animals.

After dark, Wilson said several neighbors, jumped on all terrain vehicles and went looking for the Air Force veteran.

They found his truck still running hours after he was attacked.

Soward says it’s up to the family to decide what to do with the donkey.

Mayor Pro Tem Steve Phillips will serve as acting mayor of Hollywood Park, a town of about 3,000 just north of San Antonio.

A memorial service is scheduled for next Tuesday at Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church with a burial at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

--Joseph Fenity