The Legend of Star VII: A Reindeer’s Plight in Anchorage
In the frigid Anchorage night of February 20, a mysterious figure, dressed in dark clothes and hidden behind a mask, scaled a six-foot wooden fence to release Star VII, one of the most iconic reindeer in the nation, into the unknown. The reindeer, a beloved fixture in Anchorage, was later found wandering the streets by a member of the police department. But the drama didn’t end there. The next evening, the same or another disguised figure targeted Star VII again, spraying him with a substance his owner believed was air freshener. This act of vandalism left Star VII gravely ill and sparked a wave of concern across the city. Anchorage’s Star reindeer are more than just animals; they are living legends, serving as unofficial mascots and playing pivotal roles in parades, school field trips, and cultural events. Their fame is so enduring that, like the Pope or the Dalai Lama, when one Star passes, another takes its place, ensuring the legacy lives on.
The Mysterious Attacks and Their Aftermath
The Anchorage Police Department launched an investigation into the strange incidents, releasing security footage of the assailant in hopes of gathering tips. Albert Whitehead, Star VII’s 84-year-old caretaker and a retired technology entrepreneur, recounted the harrowing events. He shared that while he didn’t see the attacker’s face, he heard their voice. “Stop!” Whitehead shouted at the figure, who responded, “I’m trying to help Star,” before walking away nonchalantly, seemingly unfazed by the promise of approaching police. Despite the efforts of law enforcement, the identity of the mysterious sprayer remains unknown.
The health of Star VII, an 8-year-old male reindeer and the second under Whitehead’s care, deteriorated rapidly after the attack. He stopped eating, lost significant weight, and became “nothing but skin and bones,” according to Whitehead. Diagnosed with pneumonia, Star VII’s condition grew so dire that Whitehead considered euthanasia to end his suffering. However, over time, the reindeer began a slow recovery, now receiving regular shots from a local veterinarian and undergoing frequent blood tests. “He is still touch and go,” Whitehead said, adding, “We think we have the pneumonia under control now.”
Questions of Motive and Intent
The question of whether the same person was responsible for both releasing Star VII and spraying him with the mysterious substance remains unanswered. While the Anchorage Police Department labeled the tampering with Star’s cage as an attempted theft, Whitehead is doubtful. He believes the individual who altered the enclosure was not trying to steal Star VII but rather to set him free. However, as Whitehead pointed out, freeing a reindeer into the wild, especially during a harsh winter night, poses a significant threat to its well-being. The tension between the motives of the perpetrator and the impact on Star VII’s health adds another layer of complexity to the case.
Community Outrage and Support for Star VII
The news of Star VII’s suffering sent shockwaves through the Anchorage community. Residents took to social media and Facebook groups to express their dismay and outrage over the attacks on the beloved reindeer. “Sad someone has been trying to hurt poor Star,” one person commented, while another pleaded, “FIND THE CRIMINAL WHO KEEPS MESSING WITH STAR!!! STAR is very sweet, and would not make it in the wild.” The outpouring of support highlights just how deeply intertwined Star VII is with the city’s identity and culture. For many, Star VII is more than just a reindeer; he is a symbol of joy, resilience, and community spirit.
The Legacy of Star VII and the Future Ahead
As Star VII continues his fragile recovery, the city of Anchorage remains on high alert, hoping for his full restoration to health. The attacks on Star VII have not only raised questions about the motives of the perpetrator but also underscored the deep bond between the reindeer and the community. Star VII’s story is a testament to the enduring power of animals to bring people together and create shared experiences. While the future remains uncertain for this cherished reindeer, one thing is clear: Star VII’s legacy as a cultural icon and beloved mascot is safe, even as the search for his attacker continues.
