Wild Mustang Finally Captured After Evading Maryland Officials in ‘Challenging’ Two-Month Chase

A wild mustang, fittingly named Outlaw, has finally been captured after evading authorities for over two months in Maryland. The horse made headlines when it escaped from its owner on June 29, and was located near the Liberty Reservoir on September 3. The successful capture followed an extensive search involving a professional horseman, animal control officials, and representatives from a local horse rescue.

The ordeal began when Outlaw fled, prompting a dedicated effort to bring him back under human care. JR Raulerson, a seasoned horseman employed by the mustang’s owner, was instrumental in this operation. Using a combination of technology and traditional tracking methods, he and his team were able to monitor the horse’s movements and ultimately pinpoint his whereabouts. They utilised trail cameras and drones, alongside on-foot scouting, to identify Outlaw’s location in a heavily wooded area near Deer Park Road.

Raulerson’s primary goal was to coax Outlaw into a captured area using familiar tactics that would appeal to the horse’s instincts. Initially, he attempted to lure the mustang with his own horse, but this strategy proved ineffective. Consequently, he shifted his approach by laying out a trail of hay and treats to guide Outlaw towards a pen. Understanding the horse’s feeding patterns was crucial in this process, allowing the team to create a clear and inviting route.

In the final stage of the capture, the efforts of the team paid off. “He had been going in to feed for several nights, and last night we were able to close the pen, securing the horse,” explained Jaime Limoges, the executive director of the Humane Society of Carroll County. This successful maneuver allowed the team to focus their energy on transporting Outlaw to a safe destination.

With the use of fence panels, the team guided Outlaw from the pen into a trailer, ensuring a smooth transition by clearing obstacles in the environment. “It was a lot of work to definitely get there. Definitely a more extreme case than I’ve been on in most places,” stated Courtney Rosenberger, community outreach coordinator at Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue, highlighting the unique challenges presented by capturing a wild mustang.

Following the capture, it was revealed that the horse’s previous owner had surrendered him to the Humane Society of Carroll County. This decision came amid ongoing animal cruelty and abandonment charges facing the owner in West Virginia, which shed light on Outlaw’s circumstances prior to his escape and subsequent flight.

Upon arriving at Gentle Giants’ facility, which spans over 400 acres and includes two sites, Outlaw showed remarkable resilience. He was unloaded from the trailer and walked into a stall without assistance. The horse will eventually have the opportunity to roam freely in outdoor pens alongside other horses, enabling him to acclimatise slowly to human interaction and a safer environment.

Raulerson expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting, “Right now, this horse is very relaxed and happy to be here, I can tell, and so I’m really happy with the outcome. Couldn’t ask for a better situation.” This positive conclusion is a relief for all those involved in the rescue effort as they seek to provide Outlaw with the care and attention he deserves.

Looking forward, the Baltimore Environmental Police Department, along with West Virginia authorities and Carroll County Animal Control, is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding Outlaw’s escape and the case against his previous owner. As they piece together the details, the focus will remain on ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the mustang and others like him.

The story of Outlaw does not only highlight the challenges of capturing a wild animal but also raises awareness about the responsibilities associated with horse ownership and the importance of humane treatment. Outlaw’s journey from freedom back to safety serves as a reminder of both the complexities and rewards of equine rescue efforts.