Kenosha County, Wisc. – A tragic incident in Kenosha County claimed the lives of six horses on Monday morning, December 22, 2025, after they wandered onto a roadway and were struck by a pickup truck, authorities confirmed. The crash highlights the dangers posed when animals escape fenced areas and enter traffic unexpectedly.
Crash Details and Response
According to a statement from the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 4:15 a.m. on a dark, rural road. The vehicle involved was a 2004 Ford F-350 pickup truck driven by a man from Antioch, Illinois, who was en route to his workplace at the time of the incident.
Officials said the truck sustained significant damage, including fully deployed airbags, but the driver escaped without injuries. The vehicle was later towed from the scene.
Cause of the Crash
Investigators reported that neither speed nor impairment was believed to be a factor in the collision. The crash occurred in low-visibility conditions during the early morning hours.
Authorities stated that the horses, which belonged to a local resident, escaped a fenced area and entered the roadway. Tragically, five of the horses died at the scene, while a sixth had to be euthanized by the owner due to severe injuries.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The incident has raised concerns about animal safety in rural areas, particularly regarding the need for secure fencing and proper containment to prevent livestock from wandering onto busy roads.
Local residents and drivers are reminded to exercise extra caution on rural roads, especially during early morning and late-night hours when visibility is limited and animals may unexpectedly enter the roadway.
Sheriff’s Office Statement
The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and urged residents to ensure that their animals are properly secured to prevent similar tragedies.
Officials emphasized that incidents involving livestock on roads can have devastating consequences for both animals and drivers, even when no negligence is involved.
Have you witnessed livestock or animals on roadways in your area? What steps do you think can help prevent accidents like this in rural communities? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
