Horse Euthanized After Being Hit By Car At Assateague Island

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A 16-year-old stallion was euthanized after being struck by a vehicle at the Assateague Island National Seashore on Friday.

The stallion, known as Tunkan Hoksila, suffered a broken leg when he was hit by a car, according to a Facebook post from the National Park Service.

The death of the horse remains under investigation.

In light of the fatality, which marks 30 horses that have been killed since 1982 as a result of vehicle collisions, authorities are reminding those visiting the area to pay attention to their surroundings at all times.

Specifically, the park service is asking drivers to take the following safety measures when passing through:

• Obey all post speed limits. When horses are near the roadside, it may be necessary to drive slower than the posted limit;
• Keep an eye on horse movements along the road as they may be startled into traffic by unseen hazards, such as horse fly bites;
• Don't encourage horses to come by your vehicle. Not only is it illegal, but it encourages them to stay near the road to look for handouts.

In:
• National Park Service