Google the phrase “horse shooting,” and incidents pop up from all around the world. In the United States, the crime is, unfortunately, not rare. In most cases, the perpetrator is rarely found.
In this podcast, you will hear the 911 call placed by a terrified woman in Arkansas when a neighbor began to fire on her home. It wasn’t until law enforcement had come and gone that three horses were discovered shot and it appeared the neighbor shot the horses before shooting on the home.
Two horse owners, in Texas and Maryland, share their experiences after finding their horses shot, but alive only to have to be euthanized later due to the severity of their injuries. Finally, a representative of responding law enforcement in Arkansas will discuss their response to the shooting and provide perspective on what horse owners can do in a similar situation.
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The Shooting Of “Pete” in Weatherford, Texas
Lauri and Larry Turner were especially fond of Pete as he came to them in fairly poor shape, underweight and worn out. Once Pete was healthier, the couple enjoyed roping off the Paint as it was something he clearly enjoyed, too. He was also a great horse for teaching others how to ride. If you have information about the shooting that took place march 17, 2021 call the Parker County Sheriff’s office at (817) 594-8845. and refer to case number case 2021-00838. A $6,000 reward is being offered, including $1,000 reward from Crime Stoppers for information about this case or the individual(s) involved. You may remain anonymous when calling Crime Stoppers at (817) 599-5555.
Legg’s: Targeted in his Pasture
Legg’s, a 17.2 Thoroughbred and former race horse, was a champion show jumper and a favorite among Cheryl Bean’s students who took lessons at her farm in Leonardtown, Maryland. On Father’s Day 2021, Cheryl spotted the near white horse in the pasture sweating so profusely he was a dark gray. She soon spotted what she thought was a puncture wound on his right flank, but moments later, Legg’s collapsed and to her horror, began hemorrhaging blood. Sadly, he had to be euthanized. A $5,000 reward is being offered and tips leading to the arrest of the shooter can be shared through Crime Solvers by calling 301-475-3333 or through the sheriff’s office at 301-475-4040.
Terror In Arkansas
Meghan Watley was enjoying a quiet afternoon in her barndemonium on June 24, 2021 when suddenly the back window of her home was shattered by gunfire. Her neighbor, 57-year-old Karen Benson fired multiple shots into the home and was arrested. It was only after her arrest that three horse were discovered shot, apparently her first targets before firing on the home. She was charged with aggravated assault, committing a terroristic act, criminal mischief and aggravated animal cruelty was held in the Washington County Detention Center on $50,000 bond. Below are the complaint and hearing documents. Click on document to download.
