Mikayla Raines, founder of the popular animal rescue organization Save A Fox and a well-known YouTuber, has died by suicide, her husband Ethan Raines confirmed in a heartbreaking video uploaded to the Save A Fox YouTube channel on June 23, 2025.
Mikayla, who was known for her tireless work rescuing and caring for foxes and other exotic animals, had been battling severe mental health conditions including depression, autism, and borderline personality disorder. According to Ethan, despite years of therapy and various medications, she continued to struggle with daily life and emotional regulation.
In his emotional 11-minute statement, Ethan revealed that Mikayla had been the target of a prolonged online harassment campaign. The abuse reportedly came not only from strangers but also from individuals within her personal life and others in the animal rescue community.
“They spread false rumors, and being the sensitive person she was, it deeply affected her,” Ethan said. “She tried for years to push through the pain, but this time it was too much.”
Mikayla is survived by Ethan, their daughter Freya, and the many animals she cared for at Save A Fox’s Minnesota and Florida locations. Ethan has vowed to continue her legacy and the mission of the rescue.
Fans and fellow animal lovers expressed shock and sorrow online, paying tribute to Mikayla’s impact on the rescue community.
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