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NYC Carriage Horse Crashes into Multiple Cars

In a shocking incident, a 15-year-old carriage horse named Gunner created chaos on the streets of New York City, crashing into multiple cars after the carriage driver lost control. Witnesses describe a scene of terror and distress as Gunner, clearly frightened, bolted down 55th Street and onto the West Side Highway, colliding with vehicles before collapsing to the ground. This unfortunate incident has reignited the debate over the safety and humane treatment of carriage horses in the city.

Source: PIX11 News/YouTube

The dramatic episode unfolded when Gunner crashed into several cars on 55th Street, causing extensive damage. Witnesses report that the horse, in a state of distress, broke free from the carriage and sprinted down the busy street. The chaotic situation continued onto the West Side Highway, where Gunner collided with another vehicle, resulting in injuries. The New York Police Department (NYPD) promptly arrived at the scene, transporting Gunner back to the stable at 52nd Street. The horse sustained leg injuries and cuts, a testament to the violent nature of the incident.

Eyewitnesses, including individuals whose cars were damaged in the incident, attested to Gunner’s evident distress. Witnesses heard the horse making distressing noises and observed it behaving uncontrollably. The episode underscores the vulnerability of horses in urban environments and raises questions about the suitability of their presence on crowded city streets.

NYCLASS, an Animal rights organization advocating for the humane treatment of carriage horses, issued a statement condemning the incident. Edita Birnkrant, Executive Director of NYCLASS, called for urgent action from New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Mayor Eric Adams to fast-track legislation removing horse carriages from Midtown streets. This incident comes on the heels of Ian McKeever’s recent arrest and charges for criminal animal cruelty, further intensifying calls for comprehensive reform.

The incident underscores the inherent danger of placing animals, such as horses, in bustling city environments. Horses possess a highly developed flight drive, causing them to bolt when frightened, as demonstrated by Gunner’s behavior. The combination of fear and the chaotic urban setting creates a clear public safety hazard, as witnessed in this alarming event. Advocates argue that forcing horses into such situations constitutes both a danger to the public and an act of cruelty towards the animals.

NYCLASS emphasizes that the majority of New Yorkers, according to polls, Support the removal of horse carriages from city streets. The organization urges the NYC Council to heed public sentiment and take decisive action to end the practice. The call for legislative measures is amplified by the immediate need to prevent further incidents like the one involving Gunner, protecting both the public and the well-being of carriage horses.

Find out more about NYCLASS here.