Tragedy struck late Friday night near Bradenton, Florida, when a horse trailer belonging to Florida Beach Horses was involved in a severe collision, killing one horse and injuring seven others, as well as seriously injuring two people, according to the company and various local news reports.
The tragedy happened on State Route 70 in Myakka City, when the trailer was T-boned by an SUV, causing it to topple, according to WFLA, which first reported on the incident.
The two individuals transporting the horses were both seriously injured in the crash, with one requiring surgery and a long road to recovery, adding a layer of distress to the horses’ loss and injuries. “Hoss,” the horse that died in the accident, was described as beloved by the riding center.
In the aftermath of this disaster, the horse riding center has created a GoFundMe campaign to fund veterinary treatment for the injured horses, funeral fees for “Hoss”, and medical bills and rehabilitation for the victims, as reported by WFLA.
Among the injured horses, “Sparkles” is receiving surgery for two significant fractures on either side of her skull, which have also impacted her nasal passage, as well as two major injuries to her rear legs, according to WFLA’s coverage of the incident.
According to additional evidence gathered by First Coast News, the horses had finished their daily beach excursions when the disaster occurred.
The center’s GoFundMe page describes the emotional and financial impacts of this tragedy as overwhelming; a view that is widely understood amongst those who work close to such majestic creatures.
The Florida Highway Patrol has begun an investigation into the crash details which are still forthcoming, with updates and requests for assistance channeled through social media and online fundraising platforms, two representatives of our shared vulnerabilities in The continuing investigation has yet to be fully publicized; however, local news outlets, including WTSP, have confirmed the Florida Highway Patrol’s involvement in the case.
Reference: Fatal Collision Near Bradenton Kills Horse and Injures Seven People in Myakka City Trailer Accident
