A horse trailer overturned in Charlotte late Friday evening, prompting a heavy response from rescue crews.
Charlotte Fire said it happened around 8:40 p.m. along Brookshire Boulevard near Carothers Street. The trailer, which was carrying three horses, was sent about 25 feet down an embankment.
Three fire engine companies, a ladder company, and two Urban Search and Rescue vehicles were called to aid, along with three veterinarians and staff from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control. Firefighters said they used specialized tools to carefully cut away parts of the trailer, while veterinary staff monitored the horses’ condition.
Two of the horses did not survive the crash. The third horse was freed around 1:11 a.m. and taken to a nearby trailer to be transported away for continued care. The fire department shared a video of that horse’s rescue on social media.
Crews remained on scene until about 2:30 a.m. for support and to clear the area. Charlotte Fire said the horses’ owners planned to bring in their own resources Saturday to recover the remaining animals.
“This was a difficult and emotional scene,” said Charlotte Fire Chief Reginald Johnson. “Our firefighters, alongside the veterinarians and Animal Care & Control, demonstrated tremendous care, professionalism, and compassion throughout the night. Their teamwork reflects the very best of what it means to serve this community.”
Charlotte Fire notes the cause of the incident is under investigation by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
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