Wild Horse Bullwinkle Euthanized After Being Struck by Vehicle on NC Beach
Tragic Incident on the North Carolina Coast
Corolla, North Carolina – A beloved wild horse named Bullwinkle was tragically euthanized following a collision with a car on Friday night. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund was alerted to the distressing situation around 11:30 p.m. when a passerby reported the incident while surf fishing on the beach.
Details of the Accident
According to reports, Bullwinkle, a 10-year-old stallion, suffered multiple severe injuries as a result of the accident:
- Significant skin trauma on the right side and back
- Broken right hind leg with a fracture in the lower femur
- Left hind trauma causing instability in the hock with collateral ligament injuries
- Disturbance in the abdomen, indicating internal trauma and possibly internal bleeding
Painful Decision to Euthanize
Despite the best efforts from the Corolla Wild Horse Fund, Bullwinkle’s injuries were too extensive for recovery. After thorough evaluation, he was humanely euthanized the following morning. “Bullwinkle died as wild as he lived,” stated the Fund, underscoring the tragic nature of his passing.
Impact on the Wild Horse Population
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that wild horses face due to reckless human behavior. The organization expressed their sorrow, stating, “He was in the prime of his life…and his genetics are gone from the herd forever.” With the wild horse population already endangered, losing Bullwinkle could have long-term repercussions for the herd’s survival.
Aftermath and Community Response
Following the event, the Corolla Wild Horse Fund laid Bullwinkle to rest at the edge of a meadow, where he can be remembered by those who knew and loved him. The organization highlighted the importance of respecting these majestic animals and the challenges they face as human interaction continues to impact their lives.
Legal Consequences for the Driver
Authorities confirmed that the driver involved in the incident has been arrested, raising questions about accountability and road safety in areas frequented by wildlife.
Conclusion
The loss of Bullwinkle serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the incredible bond that exists between humans and the wild horses of Corolla. His legacy will continue to resonate within the community, emphasizing the need for critical awareness and respect for wildlife.
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.
