Save a Fox Founder Mikayla Raines Dies by Suicide at 29: Husband Vows to Continue Her Mission

Mikayla Raines, the passionate wildlife activist behind Save a Fox Rescue, has died by suicide, her husband confirmed in a heartbreaking video. Known for her love of animals and millions of followers online, Raines’ death has left a community in mourning.

Minnesota, June 25 — Mikayla Raines, founder of the popular wildlife rescue organization Save a Fox and a beloved figure in the online animal welfare community, has tragically died by suicide at the age of 29. Her husband, Ethan, confirmed the devastating news in an emotional video posted on Instagram, revealing that Mikayla died “a couple days ago,” after enduring immense emotional pain. “She couldn’t bear what she was feeling any longer,” Ethan said, adding that her passing is “the biggest loss of my life.”

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Ethan described the heartbreaking moment he attempted to save his wife, performing CPR for 15 minutes before paramedics arrived. “We have suffered a loss that is unimaginable,” he said, describing Mikayla as “the most amazing and inspiring individual” he has ever known. He also shared that their daughter Freya is “heartbroken.”

Despite the grief, Ethan promised to carry on her legacy:

“I will continue her dream, and I hope to have your support going forward so that we can do good in her name.”

Mikayla Raines, who was diagnosed on the autism spectrum, founded Save a Fox in 2017 when she was just 20. The Minnesota-based nonprofit rehabilitates and rehomes rescued foxes, many of whom were surrendered by fur farms or breeders. Her YouTube channel, filled with endearing videos of rescued foxes, raccoons, and wildlife care, amassed over 2.4 million subscribers and inspired millions around the globe.

Ethan opened up about the personal struggles that accompanied Mikayla’s public success.

“As many of you know, she was on the autism spectrum and while that made her life very difficult, it allowed her to hyperfocus on one thing — and that one thing was obviously animals,” he said. “She was one of the most selfless people I’ve ever known.”

He explained that her sensitivity and empathy — which fueled her animal advocacy — also made her deeply vulnerable to emotional pain.

In recent years, Mikayla had reportedly been the target of what Ethan called an “online bullying campaign,” allegedly involving people from within the animal sanctuary community.

“She took everything negative to heart,” he said. “She initially pushed through, but when even some people she considered close friends turned against her, she felt like the world had turned on her.”

The emotional toll became too much. Ethan’s words painted a vivid portrait of a young woman who gave everything to her cause, yet struggled in silence.

“It breaks my heart that someone so selfless and devoted to animals could have so much negativity pointed at her,” he added.

Ethan ended his video with a message for others who might be suffering:

“If you’re feeling lost or hopeless, reach out to someone. Look out for your loved ones. Look for the signs. Say something. Do something — before it’s too late.”

He emphasized that Mikayla’s mission will live on and pledged to continue Save a Fox in her honor.

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As tributes pour in from fans, animal lovers, and fellow activists, Mikayla Raines is remembered not just for her viral videos and charming foxes, but for her tireless advocacy, compassion, and the legacy she built from the ground up. While her life ended far too soon, her mission — to rescue, rehabilitate, and love the forgotten animals — will carry on in the hearts of those she inspired.