News Summary
A wild stallion named Alexander was killed by an SUV driven by Shannon Seamster in Nags Head, NC. The incident, related to drunk driving, highlights the urgent need for beach safety and wildlife protection as officials reiterate warnings to beachgoers about maintaining distance from wild horses. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund mourns Alexander’s loss, emphasizing the importance of genetic diversity within the endangered horse population. This event underscores the need for community awareness regarding wildlife protection in the Outer Banks.
Nags Head, NC – A tragic incident occurred shortly after midnight on June 14, 2025, when a wild stallion named Alexander was struck and killed by an SUV driven by 26-year-old Shannon Seamster on N.C. 12 near mile marker 19. This incident has raised concerns about beach safety and the protection of wildlife in the Outer Banks area.
Alexander, a 5-year-old stallion, died instantly from the impact of the collision. Authorities report that Seamster was found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.11, which is above the legal limit of 0.08 in North Carolina. She has been charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) and was released on a secured bond of $2,500. Seamster is scheduled to appear in Currituck County court on August 13, 2025.
The Corolla Wild Horse Fund has expressed profound sadness over Alexander’s death, calling it a significant loss for the herd. As the last offspring of his mother, Alexander played a crucial role in maintaining the genetic diversity of the endangered wild horse population in the area. The Fund highlighted that Alexander was a special horse who overcame numerous challenges in his early life and had a bright future ahead.
This incident has prompted a renewed focus on beach safety concerning the wild horse population, particularly during foal season. Prior warnings had already been issued by local officials urging beachgoers to maintain a distance of at least 50 feet from the wild horses, equivalent to the length of a school bus. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund, alongside officials from the Cape Lookout National Seashore and the Rachel Carson Reserve, emphasized the need for visitors to respect the wild horses and their habitats. Past incidents have raised concerns about people’s attempts to interfere with these animals, further emphasizing the importance of wildlife protection.
Officials have stressed the need for drivers to exercise caution during nighttime, particularly in areas where wildlife is likely to cross roadways. Community awareness of surroundings while driving is crucial in preventing tragic incidents like the one that claimed Alexander’s life. The unfortunate event has served as a reminder for both locals and tourists about the importance of safe driving practices and respect for wildlife in the Outer Banks.
Alexander’s death not only highlights the dangers that wild horses face but also the importance of education regarding their protection during peak visitor seasons. As the Outer Banks remains a popular destination for beachgoers, raising awareness about the coexistence of humans and wildlife in these natural habitats is more crucial than ever.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Incident Claims Life of Wild Stallion in Currituck
Tragic Death of Wild Stallion in Nags Head
Young Woman Charged After Striking and Killing Wild Stallion
Tragic Loss of Wild Stallion Alexander in Nags Head
Tragic Horse Death in Corolla, North Carolina
Tragic Collision Claims Life of Wild Stallion in Corolla
Tragic Collision Claims Life of Corolla Wild Stallion
Caution Urged as Foal Season Begins for Wild Horses in NC
Tragic Loss of Beloved Wild Stallion Alexander in Nags Head
Tragic Death of Wild Stallion Alexander in Nags Head
Additional Resources
- WBTV
- Wikipedia: Wild Horses in the United States
- CBS17
- Google Search: Outer Banks wild horses
- 29 News
- Google Scholar: Outer Banks wild horses
- WITN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: North Carolina wildlife
- Spectrum Local News
- Google News: Alexander wild horse Outer Banks
