Drone kills Canadian animal rescuer in Ukraine

Jesse Adams, a Canadian volunteer animal rescuer, was killed in Ukraine during a mission to help animals. Animal Rescue Kharkiv, the group he volunteered with, said in a Facebook post that Adams was evacuating animals from the eastern city of Kramatorsk when the vehicle he was in was attacked by an “enemy FPV drone.” The group said the drone struck the windshield directly and Adams suffered serious injuries before being taken immediately to a local hospital. Doctors attempted emergency surgery, but he died from his injuries.

Animal Rescue Kharkiv praised Adams’ work, saying he helped save hundreds of animals through his volunteer efforts. The group said that someone travelling halfway around the world to work alongside them in some of the most difficult conditions meant more than words could express.

Adams was originally from Vancouver Island and co-founded RainCoast Dog Rescue Society in Victoria. SPCA International paid tribute to him on social media, saying there would never be another “light” like Jesse, or another person with his energy, enthusiasm and compassion for making the world kinder. PETA, or People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, said Adams “put his own life at risk to give [animals] a chance at safety.”

Adams’ last Facebook post, on Oct. 23, showed him in a small village outside Kramatorsk. In a selfie-style video, he told followers about the rescue mission he was about to undertake: “This is what we’re doing today. Another mission in the frontline cities, to get dogs, cats, and cows — cows and their babies. I’m really excited for this. I have never messed with cows before; it’s definitely a first, but… they need our help. We’re definitely going to be there for them.”

Earlier this week, a petition was launched on Change.org calling on the Government of Canada to recognize Adams for his bravery and sacrifice. It asks the government to review his actions and consider him for an appropriate Canadian honour recognizing his courage, selflessness and sacrifice. The petition had received more than 7,600 signatures at the time of publication.