Wild Mustangs Running Loose on Rural North Carolina Road

STATESVILLE, N.C. (AP) — At Stolen Horse International, also known as NetPosse, every loose or missing horse is treated with urgency and care, because even when animals escape accidentally, they still need to be found and returned safely. Situations like this remind horse owners and communities that incidents can happen despite precautions, and quick awareness can make all the difference. As these wild mustangs continue to be spotted on roadways in Iredell County, there is hope that continued efforts by authorities and the public will lead to the herd being safely rounded up soon.

Authorities in Iredell County are working to capture a herd of wild mustangs that escaped from a private property and have been roaming near roadways, raising safety concerns for motorists and residents.

About 10 horses have been on the loose since at least May 11, prompting a coordinated response from Iredell County Animal Services, the sheriff’s office and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, officials said. [newsbreak.com], [iredellfreenews.com]

The animals have been spotted in several areas, including Eufola Road, Lewis Ferry Road, Interstate 40 and U.S. Highway 70, according to county officials.  Witnesses have reported seeing the horses running close to traffic, including on the interstate, where drivers were forced to slow down or maneuver to avoid them. [aol.com] [aol.com]

Officials say public safety is their top concern as crews continue to track and contain the mustangs. The horses have been most active during early morning, evening and nighttime hours, when visibility is lower and traffic hazards increase. [aol.com], [iredellfreenews.com]

Animal Services officers and law enforcement have been patrolling affected areas and responding to multiple reports from residents. In some cases, hay has been used in efforts to lure the horses to safer locations where they can be contained.  Authorities have also warned the public not to attempt to approach or capture the animals, saying such actions could startle the herd and push them into more dangerous conditions. [wsoctv.com] [iredellfreenews.com]

Officials said the horses escaped from a local property and were not properly secured. As a result, the animals’ owners are facing misdemeanor charges under North Carolina law for allowing livestock to run at large and for failing to cooperate with recovery efforts. [aol.com], [iredellfreenews.com]

Residents who encounter the horses are urged to contact Iredell County Animal Services or local law enforcement immediately and provide the animals’ location. [aol.com]
Authorities said efforts to safely recover the remaining horses are ongoing.