Search for missing Las Vegas veterinarian linked to viral video enters 6th day
Apr 13, 2025
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) -- Nearly a week after a video showing a man kicking a horse sparked outrage online, the search for Dr. Shawn Frehner remains ongoing, according to the Lake Mead National Park Service's social media post Friday.
Frehner, 56, was last seen around 9 a.m. on Sunday, April 6, enterin
g the Lake Mead recreation area through the Boulder entrance. His truck was later found parked at Hemmenway Harbor with his keys, wallet, and cellphone inside, officials said.
Las Vegas veterinarian missing following apology for kicking horse in head
As of Friday, the search was still active, and investigators said, "You don't have to tell us who you are, but please tell us what you know."
Frehner, 56, was last seen around 9 a.m. on Sunday, April 6, entering the Lake Mead recreation area through the Boulder entrance. (Lake Mead NPS)
Frehner is described as 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing around 190 pounds.
According to a missing person report, Frehner’s father told investigators he doesn’t believe his son would harm himself.
Father of missing Las Vegas veterinarian doesn’t believe his son would harm himself
Shawna Gonzalez witnessed Frehner kick the horse in the head, leaving an abrasion. (Courtesy Shawna Gonzalez)
Records 8 News Now obtained showed the Nevada State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners placed Frehner’s license on probation in 2016. He agreed to a year-long license suspension.
The Nye County Sheriff’s office is investigating him for animal cruelty following a complaint from the horse’s owner. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact the NPS tip line at 888-653-0009 or call 911. ...read more read less