CEDAR PARK, Texas – A shocking incident at a high school in Cedar Park has left the local community reeling. A 17-year-old student, Aubrey Vanlandingham, is accused of killing a goat named Willie by force-feeding it pesticide. The goat belonged to another high schooler, and police say Vanlandingham did it because she believed the goat’s owner “is a cheater.”
Both teenagers were part of the Future Farmers of America organization, which aims to teach students about agriculture and responsibility. The incident reportedly took place on October 23 at the Vista Ridge High School barn, where the animals were kept. Security footage captured a student feeding the toxic substance to Willie, who tragically died after suffering from severe symptoms like convulsions and difficulty breathing.
An investigation by Williamson County authorities confirmed the cause of death as poisoning from a pesticide called phosmet. According to the affidavit, Vanlandingham initially denied any involvement but later admitted to the crime. She reportedly told detectives that she doesn’t like “cheaters.”
Further evidence uncovered by investigators included searches on her phone for phrases like “can straight bleach kill goats,” “how much bleach kills a goat,” and “how to clear search history.” Shockingly, police revealed this wasn’t her first attempt to poison Willie.
Vanlandingham was arrested on November 22 and later released after posting a $5,000 bond. She is due to appear in court on January 15. If convicted, she could face up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine under Texas law, where cruelty to livestock animals is a felony.
The heartbreaking death of Willie has sparked outrage and raised questions about the treatment of animals in school agricultural programs. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of teaching compassion and responsibility when working with animals.
