DNR Investigating Injury To Horse On Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest Trail

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2020
Photo Credit: Tara LeRoy, Southern Kettle Moraine Horse Trail Association

Submitted to OnFocus – PALMYRA, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in collaboration with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), seeks the public’s help with information relating to an injury of a horse with a rider along a trail in the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest during the afternoon of Wednesday, Oct. 28.

During the ride, the rider discovered the horse had an arrow lodged in one of its legs, just above the hoof. The rider was not injured. This occurred south of Palmyra in Jefferson County on state forest land, near Viele Lane.

Department staff received the call at about 3:15 p.m. DNR wardens, along with the JCSO and the Palmyra Police Department responded to the scene. The DNR is leading the ongoing investigation.

Lt. John Sinclair of the DNR Bureau of Law Enforcement asks anyone with any information, no matter how small it may seem, to please call the DNR Violation Hotline 1-800-TIP-WDNR or 1-800-847-9367.

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“It is with a broken heart for a fellow rider and horse lover, great anger, and deep concern for all riders that I share this tragic incident which happened yesterday on the Southern Kettle Moraine Trails.

This horse was shot by a hunter’s arrow on horse trails while riding near Viele Rd. The horse has died as a result if its injury. The person responsible has NOT been caught!! Please be on the lookout!
Please, ride carefully and share any information with authorities that may help lead to apprehending and holding this person responsible!!
This horse was being ridden last in a group of 3 riders- local riders who frequent these trails weekly- its rider was wearing bright red vest for visibility. These riders could have easily been seen and heard talking as they travelled down the trail. The hunter fled the scene and has not been found.
Please be aware of your surroundings, don’t ride alone, wear bright colors, bells, etc.
And please know this hunter does not represent the majority who are considerate and safety conscious when sharing the forest. This was a horrible and senseless incident.
My deepest sympathies for this rider’s loss- not only has she lost her beloved 4 legged friend, she has also lost the sense of peace and unequalled joy that comes with a horseback ride. Her happy place is forever scarred and that is truly tragic and a loss greater than anyone should have to shoulder.”

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News Desk
Author: News Desk

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