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Wild Mustang 'Outlaw' Captured After 66 Days on the Run
5 Sep
Summary
- A wild mustang named Outlaw was captured after escaping for 66 days.
- Professional horseman used drones and cameras to track and trap the horse.
- The horse was purchased at a Bureau of Land Management auction.
After a 66-day escape, a wild mustang named Outlaw was captured and safely relocated to Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue in Mount Airy. The sorrel gelding had been roaming near Liberty Reservoir since late June, having jumped a fence after being spooked by a lawnmower.
The rescue operation involved a coordinated effort between Carroll County Animal Control, Gentle Giants, a professional horseman, and environmental police. JR Raulerson, the professional horseman, employed trail cameras, a drone, and on-foot scouting to locate Outlaw's living area.
Raulerson devised an innovative plan, setting up a pen in the woods and luring Outlaw with hay. Using carefully monitored patterns, the horse was eventually trapped. A specialized chute constructed from 59 fence panels guided Outlaw calmly into a trailer for transport.
Outlaw was originally purchased at a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) auction, raising concerns for Gentle Giants regarding the inconsistent vetting process for wild horse adopters. The rescue is currently investigating the circumstances of Outlaw's abandonment, with ownership surrendered to the Humane Society of Carroll County and pending transfer to Gentle Giants.
The horse is now decompressing at the rescue facility. Future plans include training him to become a companion or trail horse. Donations are encouraged to support Outlaw's ongoing care, including food, veterinary treatment, and farrier services.
