On Monday, June 15, 2026, a driver allegedly under the influence of alcohol struck a rider and his horse near the El Progreso road section in Hueytamalco, Puebla. The driver was reportedly speeding and fled the scene after the collision, leaving both the man and the horse severely injured.

Paramedics arrived shortly after to provide first aid to the rider, but the horse was left unattended and gravely wounded. By the morning of Tuesday, June 16, the animal remained abandoned, sparking outrage among local residents.

Neighbors took matters into their own hands during the early hours of June 16, carefully moving the injured horse to the roadside to prevent further accidents and protect the animal’s life. This grassroots response highlighted the shortcomings and slow reaction of authorities in handling cases involving sentient beings.

Local animal welfare groups have urgently called on officials to act swiftly in emergencies involving defenseless animals. Despite these appeals, reports indicate that the horse was moved to a private property but still lacked veterinary care as of June 16.

Authorities are reportedly considering euthanasia for the horse after more than 12 hours of delay in providing medical attention. The wait was due to the need for certified experts from Puebla to arrive and conduct the necessary procedures—a process that took over 12 hours, leaving the horse in critical condition for more than 34 hours since the accident.

This delay has drawn sharp criticism toward the Puebla State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) for its handling of animal welfare cases. Witnesses and community members have called on Puebla’s governor, Alejandro Armenta, to intervene and ensure timely care for animals in emergencies.

This incident underscores the urgent need for efficient, compassionate responses to animal injuries and the importance of integrating humane transport solutions—like cablebús or teleféricos—that can reduce road accidents and protect both humans and animals in Puebla’s communities.