Charges Filed in Horse Death Incident in Currituck County

Incident Overview

Currituck County was the scene of a tragic incident where a horse was hit and killed on the beach. The police have since charged a man in connection with the event. The incident occurred near milepost 20, where the wild horse, identified as Bullwinkle, a 10-year-old stallion, was struck by a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle).

Details of the Charges

According to the sheriff’s office, Porter Williamson, a 57-year-old from Chesapeake, is facing charges of RDO (resisting, delaying, obstructing) after allegedly fleeing the scene. He was initially placed under a bond amounting to $10,000. The authorities were able to identify Williamson as the driver of the vehicle after getting descriptions from several witnesses present at the beach.

The Aftermath

After the collision, Bullwinkle sustained serious injuries, which included significant skin trauma and a broken leg. Despite the efforts made to save him, he was later euthanized due to the severity of his injuries. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund released a statement detailing the injuries Bullwinkle suffered, describing a broken hind leg, abdominal injuries, and other complications that left the stallion in critical condition.

A Second Arrest

In a related turn of events, Rhonda Williamson, aged 62, was also charged with RDO, but her bond was set at $5,000 for providing false information to the law enforcement authorities. The nature of their relationship has not been disclosed.

Community Response

The incident has sparked a conversation within the community about the safety of wildlife in areas frequented by visitors, especially in regions like Corolla, known for its wild horse population. Local organizations are raising awareness about the importance of protecting these majestic creatures and ensuring responsible behavior on the beaches.