Three individuals sustained injuries during a horse-drawn wagon ride at the Lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville, North Carolina, on 17 October. The incident occurred when a tree limb fell, striking the side of the wagon and startling the horses, which led to the passengers falling off the vehicle.
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According to a statement released by the ranch on social media, emergency responders promptly arrived at the scene. The injured parties were subsequently transported to local hospitals for medical evaluation and treatment. The remaining passengers on the ride either did not suffer any injuries or chose not to seek medical attention. Fortunately, the wagon driver remained unscathed, and the horses involved underwent an evaluation to ensure they were unharmed, allowing them to return to work shortly after the incident.
In a heartening message shared on Facebook, the Lazy 5 Ranch expressed their concerns for all individuals involved, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved in this incident, and we extend our heartfelt concern to those affected and their families.”
Established in 1993 by Henry Hampton, Lazy 5 Ranch is a unique drive-through zoo that has since welcomed over three million visitors. The park is home to more than 750 animals, including several endangered species such as the Grevy zebra and ring-tailed lemur. Its offerings include not only scenic wagon rides but also a diverse range of wildlife experiences.
Despite the unfortunate occurrence, it is worth noting that this was the first time in the park’s history that an incident resulted in hospitalisation requiring an overnight stay. The ranch has emphasised their commitment to visitor safety, reiterating, “The safety and well-being of our visitors, staff, and animals remain our highest priority.”
Iredell County Emergency Medical Services and the Lazy 5 Ranch have yet to provide further comments regarding the situation, as they continue to assess the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Visitors to the ranch have been satisfied with the unique experience it offers over the years, contributing to its popularity within the community. The management has assured that measures will be evaluated and enhanced as necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future, demonstrating their commitment to both customer safety and the welfare of the animals.
As the ranch moves forward from this incident, it remains a cherished destination for families and individuals looking for an educational and enjoyable experience with wildlife. The team at Lazy 5 Ranch is likely to continue updating the public regarding any further developments related to the incident and will strive to ensure a safe environment for all visitors in the future.