News Summary
A 5-year-old wild stallion named Alex was tragically killed on Corolla beach after being struck by a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the endangered wild horse population in the Outer Banks. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the need for protective measures to safeguard these animals from road accidents. This incident highlights the ongoing threats to these wild horses and the importance of respecting their space.
Corolla, North Carolina – A tragic incident occurred on Corolla beach early Saturday morning when a 5-year-old wild stallion named Alex was killed in a collision with a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver. The accident took place around midnight at milepost 19, where vehicles permitted to access the beach collided with the beloved stallion. The driver, 26-year-old Shannon Seamster of Carova, has been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) following the incident.
Seamster’s vehicle, a Chevy Tahoe, was subsequently towed from the scene as law enforcement began their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. According to reports, Alex’s demise highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety of the critically endangered wild horse population that roams the Outer Banks, including the significance of preserving their genetics.
The Corolla Wild Horse Fund, dedicated to the protection of these wild horses, has expressed profound sorrow and devastation over the event. The organization’s CEO has noted that such incidents represent preventable tragedies that should not happen. Staff members at the Fund are reportedly grieving deeply, with some losing sleep over the loss of Alex, who was considered irreplaceable to the herd.
A member of the endangered Spanish Mustangs, also known as Banker horses, Alex held a crucial genetic lineage within the group. He was the youngest offspring of his mother, and hopes were high that he would continue his family line. His unexpected death is seen as a significant blow to the ongoing efforts to sustain the remaining population of these wild horses, which face numerous threats, both natural and man-made.
Just prior to Alex’s death, another member of the same herd, a 2-year-old colt named Donner, was found dead due to a natural conflict with a larger stallion. However, in stark contrast, Alex’s death resulted from human interference, drawing attention to the critical need for protective measures to safeguard these animals from road accidents and human engagement.
It is vital to note that local regulations prohibit approaching, feeding, or interacting with wild horses. Such actions are not only illegal but can also be dangerous for both horses and humans. Visitors to the area are advised to keep a safe distance, maintaining at least 50 feet away from the wild horses to avoid any risks and to help protect their natural behaviors.
The community has also expressed its grief and anger over Alex’s death, demonstrating a passionate commitment to the welfare of the wild horse population. In light of recent events, the Corolla Wild Horse Fund is working closely with law enforcement to further address the implications of this accident and to prevent further tragedies.
Following her arrest, Seamster was given a secured bond set at $2,500. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential consequences when vehicles come into contact with wildlife, sparking discussions about safety measures and vigilant driving practices in areas inhabited by wild animals.
The ongoing efforts of the Corolla Wild Horse Fund continue to be essential in protecting and preserving the natural heritage of these wild horses. As the community mourns the loss of Alex, it reinforces the necessity for respect and distance between humans and wildlife.
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