Tragic Loss of a Local Icon

Corolla, North Carolina – A beloved wild horse, known as Bullwinkle, was euthanized on Saturday following a serious accident involving an off-road vehicle on the beach. The ten-year-old stallion was a member of the critically endangered Banker horse breed, endemic to the Outer Banks and descended from horses brought to America by Spanish explorers in the 1500s. With only about 200 of these unique horses remaining, Bullwinkle’s death is a significant loss.

Bullwinkle’s Background

Bullwinkle was part of a herd that included around 100 wild horses. Respected for his spirited nature, he was known to be both tenacious and aggressive, qualities that helped him thrive in the wild. However, he had little to no interaction with humans, which is typical for this breed that prefers to live freely.

The Incident

The accident occurred when Bullwinkle was struck by an off-road vehicle, leading to devastating injuries. Efforts to save him ultimately failed, prompting the difficult decision to euthanize the horse. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund, the organization dedicated to managing and protecting these horses, expressed their sorrow on social media, stating, “He was in the prime of his life, and went from being a symbol of what it means to be wild and free to a tragic example of how irresponsible, reckless human behavior can cause pain, suffering and irreparable damage to the herd in an instant.”

Legal Fallout

Following the incident, police arrested a 57-year-old man from Chesapeake, Virginia, identified as Porter Williamson. He was charged with resisting a public officer after initially fleeing the scene of the accident. He returned when officers began towing the vehicle that belonged to him. After attempting to flee again, he was apprehended. Additionally, a woman named Rhonda Williamson was also charged with resisting, and their exact relation is still under investigation.

Call for Awareness

This unfortunate event highlights the increasing need for awareness and caution when driving in areas inhabited by wild horses. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund continues to advocate for the protection of these animals and urges the public to respect their habitat to prevent further tragedies.

Conclusion

The death of Bullwinkle serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of the Banker horse population. Community members and wildlife advocates alike mourn the loss of this extraordinary horse, hoping to educate drivers to avoid such incidents in the future.