Tragic Incident on North Carolina Beach: Wild Horse Bullwinkle Euthanized After Car Accident
Corolla, NC – A tragic accident on the **beaches of Corolla** resulted in the euthanization of a beloved wild horse named Bullwinkle, who was only 10 years old. The incident occurred late Friday night when a vehicle struck the horse while he was standing on the sandy shore.
Details of the Accident
At approximately **11:30 PM**, emergency services received a call about the injured horse. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of the wild horse herd in the area, quickly responded. A bystander, who was surf fishing at the time, witnessed the accident and reported it.
Injuries Sustained by Bullwinkle
The assessment of Bullwinkle showed he had sustained multiple severe injuries:
- **Significant skin trauma** over the right side and back.
- **Broken right hind leg** with a fracture of the lower femur.
- **Left hind trauma** with collateral ligament injuries, causing the leg to bow outwards.
- **Internal trauma** resulting in a fluid-filled abdomen.
Life and Legacy of Bullwinkle
Unfortunately, due to the severity of his injuries, Bullwinkle had to be humanely euthanized Saturday morning. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund expressed their grief on social media, stating, “Bullwinkle died as wild as he lived.” They highlighted the impact of this loss, noting that Bullwinkle represented not just a single horse, but the **endangered population** of wild horses that face challenges from human activities.
Community Response
The organization emphasized the tragedy of Bullwinkle’s loss, stating, “His genetics are gone from the herd forever and with such a small, endangered population the ramifications of that will last for generations.” Bullwinkle’s burial took place at the edge of a meadow, honoring his wild spirit.
Legal Action Taken
Following the incident, the driver of the vehicle involved was arrested. This accident serves as a reminder of the **dangers** facing wildlife and the consequences of reckless behavior.
Looking Ahead
As wildlife advocates mourn Bullwinkle’s death, they hope that this tragic event will encourage better awareness and protection for these magnificent creatures that roam free in **North Carolina’s** coastal areas. The struggles of wild horses are compounded by a shrinking habitat and increasing interactions with people. By sharing his story, advocates aim to foster a deeper respect for the natural world and the beings that inhabit it.
