Corolla, N.C.: Two Charged After Fatal Accident Involving Wild Horse
Deadly Encounter on the Outer Banks
In a tragic incident over the weekend, a wild stallion named Bullwinkle was struck by a side-by-side UTV (utility task vehicle) in Corolla, leading to his eventual euthanization due to severe injuries. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund reported this accident as a significant loss for the vulnerable Banker horse herd.
Accident Details
The incident occurred on a Friday night while a visitor was surf fishing with his child. After witnessing the accident, he promptly called 911 and provided crucial details regarding the injured horse. Initially, it seemed Bullwinkle was moving, but he later showed signs of serious injuries, including major damage to both back legs and internal bleeding.
Charges Filed
Following the accident, Porter Williamson of Chesapeake was identified as the driver of the UTV and reportedly fled the scene. Authorities have charged him with resisting, delaying, or obstructing law enforcement. His passenger, Rhonda Williamson, also faces similar charges along with providing false information to the deputies.
Impact on the Wild Horse Population
Herd manager Meg Puckett from the Corolla Wild Horse Fund expressed her profound sorrow regarding Bullwinkle’s death, emphasizing that his loss could resonate through the herd for generations. “Bullwinkle was in his prime, ready to sired numerous foals, and now we have lost that potential,” she stated.
Endangered Species Concerns
The wild horses in Corolla are an endangered breed, with only about 100 remaining in the area, alongside another 100 located on Shackleford Banks. Puckett highlighted how each horse is critical for the long-term survival of the herd, particularly as they face challenges like climate change, limited gene pools, and human interference.
Call for Responsible Behavior
Puckett urged visitors and residents alike to be more mindful of their actions while in the habitat of these magnificent creatures. She noted, “It’s a privilege to access this area. We all have a personal responsibility to keep it safe, clean, and to protect the wildlife.” Simple actions like picking up waste and being cautious while driving can make a significant difference in preserving this endangered species.
Looking Ahead
The loss of Bullwinkle not only represents a tragic moment in time but also serves as a reminder of the fragility of the wild horse population. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund plans to test for Bullwinkle’s DNA to check for any surviving relatives that could carry on his lineage.
The community’s support in protecting the wild horses is essential as they navigate both natural challenges and the repercussions of human actions. Every horse accounts for a piece of the cultural and historical fabric of the Outer Banks.
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
