2 collisions involving horses near Dayton on Thursday

DAYTON — The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) officials urge extreme caution after two separate collisions involving horses on Highway 50 near Dayton in the early morning hours of Thursday. One motorist sustained minor injuries when the horse came through the windshield and was killed on impact. The other collision was a hit-and-run and the horse was humanely euthanized due to severe injuries.

“We are thankful neither driver was seriously injured,” Flint Wright, NDA Animal Industry Administrator, said.

Horses in this area are crossing roadways in search of feed and water sources. Drivers should remain alert and aware, and be sure to obey all traffic laws. Officials also stressed the importance of posted speed limits in this area.

The NDA has been working closely with the Nevada Department of Transportation over the past year on installing fencing and cattle guards on the stretch of Highway 50 between Carson City and Silver Springs.

“The fencing has helped a great deal and we are doing everything we can to keep these animals off the road for public safety and the safety of the horses,” Wright said. “But I can’t stress enough how important it is to use extreme caution, and assume there are wild or feral animals on the road.”

To report horses in the Virginia Range Area (395 to 95A and I-80 to highway 50) that pose a threat to public safety, please call the horse hotline at (775) 353-3608 or email horse@agri.nv.gov.