Gravette, AR (June 5, 2025) — A 77-year-old woman from Fayetteville was killed and a 78-year-old passenger was injured early Thursday morning when their vehicle struck a horse standing on Interstate 49 near the 99-mile marker, according to the Arkansas State Police (ASP). The incident remains under investigation.
Incident Details: The crash occurred around 2:15 a.m. as Dona Smith was driving southbound on I-49. ASP reported that the vehicle collided with a horse in the roadway before veering off the interstate and crashing into a sign. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene. Her male passenger sustained injuries and was transported for medical care.
Foggy conditions were reported at the time of the crash, though the roadway was dry.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: Authorities are working to determine how the horse came to be loose on the interstate. Investigators will likely assess whether proper fencing or containment measures failed and if the animal’s owner could be held responsible.
Horse roadway collisions, while uncommon, can be deadly. In Arkansas, livestock owners may be liable for failing to exercise reasonable care in securing their animals.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the injured passenger or the deceased’s family may have grounds for personal claims, including compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and other damages.
Source: 5NEWS