Several rampaging horses still at large in Bernard Lodge

The St Catherine South police have confirmed that several horses remain at large following the escape of a herd from stables along the Bernard Lodge main road last Friday night. Motorists are being urged to exercise caution while traversing the area, as efforts continue to return the animals to their stables.

Gary Nicholson, the councillor for the Greater Portmore North division, has voiced concern about the ongoing problem of horses wandering along the roadway, especially at night as there are no street lights.

“This thoroughfare has been plagued with horses from nearby stables for years, and I believe the lack of signs cautioning motorists about the possibility of encountering horses on the loose, along with the absence of street lights, makes the situation dangerous,” Nicholson told The Gleaner.

Nicholson added that he had made repeated requests to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) to address the lighting problem but has seen no results.

“What we intend to do is to erect caution signs to notify motorists to be on the lookout for stray horses. We will also reach out to the various owners to erect proper fencing to restrain the horses,” Nicholson said. “These are some of the things we plan to address to avert a repeat of what transpired Friday night.”

Nicholson further mentioned the possibility of initiating cost-sharing discussions to fund the erection of the signs, noting that the St Catherine Municipal Corporation bears responsibility for ensuring road safety.

Last Friday, more than a dozen vehicles were reportedly damaged by horses along the Bernard Lodge main road.

Spanish Town Mayor Norman Scott declined to comment on the incident, stating he did not have sufficient information.

The police confirmed that while contacts have been made with at least one horse owner, they are working to ensure all animals are secured. Additionally, compensation is expected for damage sustained to persons and property.

Three horses that died in the incident were identified as imported fillies intended for breeding. Minor injuries were reported, with several people treated and released from the hospital.

One woman, wearing a neck brace, declined to comment on her experience when contacted by The Gleaner on Monday.

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