The Overwatch 2 community is mourning the death of Mikayla Raines, the founder of SaveAFox Rescue, following confirmation that she died by suicide in June after experiencing prolonged online harassment.
Raines’ husband, Ethan Raines, shared the news in an emotional video posted to their YouTube channel, explaining how years of online bullying took a toll on her mental health. “She pushed through for so long, but this time, it went too far,” he said.
Mikayla Raines founded SaveAFox in 2017 at age 20. Based in Minnesota, the organization has rescued over 150 foxes from fur farms, giving them a second chance at life.
Following her passing, Overwatch 2 fans rediscovered a 2024 Facebook post from SaveAFox, revealing that Blizzard Entertainment had recorded the vocalizations of Raines' foxes for the character Kiriko’s fox spirit. “Blizzard brought a sound crew and recorded our foxes overnight,” the post read. The team also made a charitable donation to the rescue.
Mikayla Raines has passed away 🕊️
— Overwatch Cavalry (@OWCavalry) June 25, 2025
With a deep commitment to rescued foxes, Mikayla created @SaveAFox_rescue, where their sounds were used for Kiriko’s spirit fox in Overwatch 2.
Rest in peace, Mikayla 🖤 pic.twitter.com/vlsT9sjhXU
We lost a true hero, a beacon of hope, an inspiration, and a beloved person. She helped save thousands of animals, especially foxes. What happened to her was cruel and truly heartbreaking, and she will be missed
— KamiKitsune VA (@Prussian_Kami) June 23, 2025
Rest in peace Mikayla Raines#saveafox pic.twitter.com/KPoiw97zDt
The revelation brought renewed attention to Raines’ work, with fans calling for Blizzard to create a tribute in-game—suggestions range from a Kiriko charm to a memorial monument.
Blizzard has not yet publicly addressed Raines’ death or potential tributes. Meanwhile, players continue to share tributes and express grief over the loss of a beloved figure whose animals helped bring a key game character to life.
If you or someone you know is struggling, contact mental health support services in your region.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ