Three horses killed after being hit by cars in Washington County

HURRICANE, Utah  — Three horses were killed on Friday night after they were struck by two cars traveling on westbound S.R. 9 in southern Utah’s Washington County.

The horses were killed late at night according to Washington County Sheriff Lt. David Crouse.

“Two vehicles were traveling westbound on S.R. 9 in an unlit area,” Crouse told KSL, “[and] came across a pack of at least six horses crossing the roadway.”

Crouse said that both cars tried to stop. Still, one car hit two horses, and the second car hit another horse.

All three horses that were hit died of their injuries. Crouse said one of the drivers was hospitalized for minor injuries.

The animals have been identified as belonging to a local ranch owner.

An investigation continues.

Triple-A recommends that drivers who are traveling on dimly lit or un-lit roadways use their automobile’s high beams (if there is no oncoming traffic) to more quickly see animals that might be on the roadway.

Other safety recommendations include:

• scanning the road and shoulders ahead of you;
• use extra caution at dusk and dawn;
• wearing a seatbelt; and
• driving sober.

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