Runaway Horse Leads Police on Wild Chase Through Santa Fe
A runaway horse led police on an unusual chase through Santa Fe, New Mexico, after escaping from its owner shortly before the city’s annual Desfile de la Gente parade on Sunday, September 13.
The horse was seen running along sidewalks, roadways and a highway, weaving past traffic as officers worked to keep it away from vehicles. The pursuit, captured in aerial and body-camera footage, lasted more than 12 minutes.
Santa Fe police deployed motorcycle officers, bicycle officers, Animal Services personnel and drone operators to help track and contain the horse. Officers eventually managed to corner the animal near a building and formed a barrier with their motorcycles and bodies to prevent it from escaping.
A local cowboy then arrived and used a lasso to bring the horse under control, drawing cheers from the officers. The horse was unharmed and was returned to its owner.
According to police, the horse was brought back to the parade starting point in time for a drink of water before the event began. Police also thanked drivers and community members who yielded to the horse and officers during the pursuit.
The unusual incident was captured on video, showing the coordinated effort by police, animal services and local cowboys to safely bring the runaway horse under control.