AMES, Iowa — Phill, the water buffalo who escaped from a Pleasant Hill farm and was shot by police back in August has died, according to the Iowa Farm Sanctuary.

A post made on the sanctuary’s Facebook page Friday morning said:

“I have no words The shock and grief are beyond overwhelming Last night around 1 am I text[sic] Jered to see if he had heard any new news on Phill. He called right away and I knew.

In the middle of the night, Phill began to crash and his doctors called to tell us there was nothing they could do.”

Iowa Farm Sanctuary

Phill was rushed to the Iowa State University Large Animal Hospital on Thursday after experiencing sudden lethargy, an inability to stay steady on his feet, and a loss of appetite.

Phill’s escape in August captivated the nation. After he was recaptured, Phill was surrendered by his owner to the Iowa Farm Sanctuary. He was joined there by two other water buffalos, Sal and Jane, who the same owner also surrendered.

The caption on the video of Phill posted to the sanctuary’s Facebook page after his passing went on to say:

“I took this video ten days ago. Phill was so peacefully showing his cud, enjoying an unseasonably warm winter day with his family. He was so peaceful and happy. He licked my face after I admired him from behind my phone. He was the sweetest, most gentle and forgiving soul. His bravery saved the life of his best friends, and ultimately, it is likely that is what stole him from us.

Phill and his family Jane and Sal had just been seen by their vet on Monday for their hair loss and severely dry skin. They were treated for parasites and no other concerns were noted. How could this happen so quickly? Why? It’s not fair. Phill didn’t deserve any of this.

We know that you all are grieving with us and we are so sorry. Please know that our little IFS family is suffering immensely from this profound and sudden loss and we ask for grace as we navigate our grief.

Phill, our brave and bulletproof buffalo, you were so loved. You changed the world. We will miss you for a lifetime.”

Iowa Farm Sanctuary

Prior to his death, the sanctuary posted about some of the sudden medical issues Phill was experiencing and the ISU veterinary team’s work to determine what made Phill sick.

They said veterinarians were examining whether the lead bullet that remained in Phill after being shot by police was causing lead toxicity. He’d also exhibited signs of a severe infection that could cause rapid deterioration. Ultrasounds suggested there could be a gastrointestinal blockage and his rumen wasn’t functioning normally.