Recent Pony Death Sparks Public Push for New Regulations in Assateague National Park

ASSATEAGUE ISLAND, Md. – Pony enthusiasts and visitors of Assateague Island National Seashore are mourning the loss of one of their own.

Nancy Gaither is the Board President of Assateague Island Alliance, and explained how the recent reported pony death, has shaken the community.

“We’re grieving.” Said Gaither. “Susie Soliel, the horse that was just struck, and Dune dancer, were loved horses on this island. Susie had seven babies, so she made a mark. And it’s just difficult.”

The Assateague Island Alliance is a non-profit working closely with the National Parks Service to spread awareness and create new regulations to protect the wildlife.

The incident has also gained wide-spread attention from the public, prompting passionate individuals to create a variety of groups pushing for increased legislation, such as lower speedlimits.

Wildlife photographer Diana Linnekin, is a memeber of Save the Assateague Island Wildlife, one of four vocal groups advocating for pony safety.

“I think it’s about engaging people and showing, you know, these ponies are iconic.” Said Linnekin. “There are a lot of people interested. And so I think this is just to show, look, you know, this isn’t an isolated group.”

The horse that was reportedly struck, named Susie Soliel, left behind a now orphaned foal. In a press release from the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, they confirmed that the foal has now been transferred to their care, and will eventually become part of their herd, freely roaming the Virginia Island.

National Park Officials remind visitors to obey posted speed limits, and to stay at least 40 feet away from wildlife at all times.