IDA Calls for Investigation into Possible Cover-up of Horse Deaths During Wild Horse Race at Salem Rodeo

Portland, Ore.—In Defense of Animals (IDA) is calling on Marion County District Attorney, Walter M. Beglau to investigate and press animal cruelty charges in a May 6 incident at the Salem Rodeo during which two horses collided while competing in the Wild Horse Race National Finals. Witnesses on the scene disagree with the official Salem Rodeo reports and assert the rodeo is covering up the deaths of two horses. Tristan Ferguson, a Dexter resident, was injured after being thrown from one of the horses.

Matt Richards, vice president of the Salem Rodeo claims the horses only suffered from minor injuries—a sprained shoulder, pulled ligament, and cut ankle--and are recovering on a ranch in Eastern Oregon. However, according to eye-witness reports from spectators and even a rodeo insider, one horse died instantly from a broken neck and the other died later as a result of injuries. Video was also taken of this incident.

IDA is sending letters today to Marion County District Attorney Walter M. Beglau, calling for an official investigation into the incident. IDA will also cooperate in every way possible to see animal cruelty charges are brought against the Salem Rodeo.

"We are very concerned about the danger wild horse racing events pose to both the horses and their riders," according to IDA spokesperson Connie Durkee. "These events should be banned from all rodeos due to the risk and inherent animal cruelty."