Car hits runaway horse outside Italy

Barry Byers Posted May 25, 2009 12:30pm Local news

Image: The Italy Fire Department responds to the scene — Members of the Italy Fire Department share thoughts on properly clearing the scene after a bridled horse was running lose down I35, ultimately being struck by a vehicle outside Italy. — The Italy Fire Department responds to the scene — Members of the Italy Fire Department share thoughts on properly clearing the scene after a bridled horse was running lose down I35, ultimately being struck by a vehicle outside Italy. (Barry Byers)

The incident occurred just past Derrs Chapell Road down I35 heading north. Reports indicated a bridled horse, racing down the highway, careened into the path of oncoming traffic colliding with a vehicle heading toward Dallas.

Italy Fire crews, DPS troopers and the Texas Department of Transportation were on scene to remove the remains of the unfortunate horse, using a small tractor, as well as towing away the battered vehicle. No injuries were reported to the passengers in the vehicle.

Firefighters sprayed the roadway clear with water hoses, dangerousely alongside moving traffic. The scene wrapped up around 11:00 p.m., just as Italy Fire Crews received another emergency call. The second call turned out to be an ambulance emergency, giving Italy Fire Crews a chance to refill their water tanks before being sent out again.

The owners of the horse were unknown at the time of the rescue.

What’s left — The car, that crashed into the runaway horse, was totalled. (Barry Byers)

Interviewing witnesses — Local Police and DPS Troopers interview passengers of the vehicle that struck the horse. (Barry Byers)

Incredible damage — The force of the vehicle colliding with the horse made a violent impact. (Barry Byers)

Securing the scene — DPS Troopers secured the scene while allowing traffic to flow in the left lane. (Barry Byers)

Clearing the scene — Italy Fire Crews use water to clear I35. (Barry Byers)

A watchful eye — Firefighters monitor the events ensuring everything is handled properly and everyone stays safe. (Barry Byers)

I.F.D. responds — The Italy Fire Department relies on their fire engines for transportation, equipment, water and barricades to keep the rescue workers safe. (Barry Byers)

At the controls — Italy Firefighters are well trained and know how to effectively use their emergency vehicles and equipment. (Barry Byers)

Teammates — Calling a play, just like when they were Gladiators huddling at Willis Field over 20 years ago, (Barry Byers)

Washing away — Clean up lasted over an hour on a warm night. (Barry Byers)

TXDOT on the spot — Lorenzo Martinez of TXDOT pepares to clear away what’s left of the scene. (Barry Byers)