According to Calgary police, seventeen cattle are dead following a single-vehicle collision on the off-ramp from Stoney Trail to Macleod Trail S.E.
At about 8:10 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, we were called to the area of Stoney Trail S.E. and Macleod Trail S.E., for reports that a semi-truck carrying approximately 95 cattle had rolled over.
Investigators believe the semi-truck was travelling on the off-ramp from eastbound Stoney Trail S.E. to southbound Macleod Trail S.E., when the driver failed to negotiate a curve and lost control of the vehicle. The semi-truck rolled over and came to a rest on the left side of the roadway.
The driver was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
The Calgary Police Service (CPS) worked with several partners, including firefighters, the RCMP, highway road crew members, cattle rustlers and a veterinarian to rescue the cattle from the semi-trailer.
During the rescue, three cattle escaped the trailer and proceeded to hoof it toward the south end of the Macleod Trail and Stoney Trail interchange, creating a public safety concern. A group of CPS officers, cattle rustlers and highway road crew members embarked on a nearly two-hour mission to corral the escaped cattle and prevent any harm to the public or the livestock.
“This was a highly dynamic situation which required inter-agency collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of the cattle and the public,” said District 8 Acting Insp. Scott Neilson. “The swift response of all involved was crucial in managing this complex call and we are grateful for the support and professionalism demonstrated by everyone on the scene.”
Sadly, several cattle died as a result of the collision. The remaining livestock were safely rescued, and no further injuries or property damage occurred.
Speed is being investigated as a factor in the collision. At this time, alcohol and drugs are not considered to be factors.
The investigation remains ongoing and anyone who may have information or dashcam footage related to this incident is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:
TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org
APP: P3 Tips