Tulsa witnessed a tragic incident on Saturday evening when a car collided with a horse and its rider. This event not only brought attention to the safety concerns surrounding horseback riders in the area but also raised questions about traffic rules and responsibilities.

"Tulsa's Horse-Car Collision: A Call for Safety Measures"

Initial Incident Details

Around 6:55 pm, Tulsa Police were dispatched to a reported two-car crash. However, upon arrival, they discovered that a car had actually hit a horse and its 19-year-old rider, José Sandoval Sanchez. The horse, named Venado, unfortunately died, and Sanchez was taken to the hospital in serious condition. Three people in the car also needed to be rushed to the hospital in critical condition. A witness claimed that the driver had blown through a stop sign.

In this growing area of east Tulsa where riding horses is common, horse rider instructor Yamineth Hernandez emphasized the need for enhanced safety measures. "It's still quite rural here. It's a mix of urban and rural areas. We really need horse signs as most people know there are horses around, but those passing by might not be aware," she said.

Down the street from the crash site, there are signs warning about trucks but not about horseback riders. Hernandez noted that as many as 15 horseback riders can be on the road at one time.

Police Response and Investigation

Lieutenant Paul Madden from The Mingo Valley Division stated that his officers and EMSA expedited their arrival due to the severity of the situation. Thankfully, the fire station is just across the street. While the incident is still under investigation, Madden wouldn't comment on the exact speed of the car but said his initial impression from watching the security video was that the car was not traveling properly on the roadway.

Tulsa Police also emphasized that horseback riders are required to follow the same rules of the road as any other vehicle.

To support Sánchez and his family with the costs of care, a donation link has been provided.