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24th June 2025
10:51am BST
Popular YouTuber Mikalya Raines has died at the age of 29, after she took her own life.
Her husband announced the news on Monday, before criticising those who had harassed her online.
Raines had amassed more than 500,000 Instagram followers and was dedicated to wildlife rescue.
The YouTube account of her organisation, Save A Fox, which has locations in Florida and Minnesota, has over 2.4 million subscribers.
Her husband announced her passing in a video to social media, during which he revealed that she had been subject to harassment online.
Ethan claimed that the abuse came from not just strangers, but also people she knew, as well as others in the animal rescue community.
Ethan said: “They spread false rumors, and being the sensitive person she was, it deeply affected her.
"She tried for years to push through the pain, but this time it was too much.
He told how some of the more recent "rude words, accusations and name-calling came from some of those she considered close friends".
He added: "I think all of this stems from jealousy and envy."
Ethan continued: "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.
"From a young age she dedicated every waking hour of her life to helping them, whether it was helping a snapping turtle cross the road or saving 500 foxes from a terrible fur farm.
"She was never in it for fame money or personal gain.
"She was truly one of the most selfless people I have ever known.
"Mikayla was truly the most amazing and inspiring individual I have ever known, and not having her here makes everything feel empty."
"I feel broken."
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health head to thecalmzone.net for practical tips and advice. You can also talk to Samaritans 24/7 by calling 116 123 for free or visiting the Samaritans website. Alternatively, you can find more information and advice on the NHS website.
