Slain Richmond Police officer’s pet finds new home at Ohio animal sanctuary

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — Nearly two years after Richmond, Indiana, Police Officer Seara Burton’s death , her pet tortoise has found a new home here in Ohio.

Wild Hearts African Farm near Lewisburg announced on Instagram that it would be taking in Mortie, the tortoise Burton had had since the reptile was little. The announcement includes a gallery that begins with Burton holding him in the palm of her hand, before skipping forward in time to show him approximately two feet long.

“We understand how much he meant to you and your dream of having him live out in the country, growing old while grazing peacefully,” wrote the sanctuary on Instagram.

“Now, we are honored to step in and continue your dream for Mortie. He will have a lifelong home here, surrounded by grazing pastures and love.”

Burton was fatally shot during a routine traffic stop in Richmond on Aug. 10, 2022. She died Sept. 18.

Phillip Lee, the man charged in her death, died in the Pendleton, Indiana, Correctional Facility on June 6, 2024, while awaiting trial. Foul play was not suspected, according to the Indiana State Police.

According to Wild Hearts, Burton’s mother had been taking care of Mortie since her death. Burton’s mother had also been taking care of Brev, Burton’s K-9 partner who was retired from the police force after her death.

Visitors to Wild Hearts African Farm can see Mortie in its animal nursery from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

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