Sumner County TN Firefighters Honored for Heroic Interstate Horse Rescue

In a recent city commission meeting, the Goodlettsville Fire Department honored six of its members for their exceptional service during a complex animal rescue on Interstate 65.

 

On December 14, 2025, amid frigid temperatures, the team responded to a rollover accident involving a semi-truck and horse trailer near mile marker 99.

 

Upon arrival, they discovered 17 full-grown horses trapped inside the overturned trailer, their halters tied to the upper side, causing severe breathing distress.

 

Demonstrating remarkable skill and urgency, the firefighters cut the halters from the outside and forced entry into the tack room to retrieve necessary equipment.

 

Inside, they faced a daunting scene: horses tangled and lying atop one another, unable to stand.

 

Utilizing straps, slings, winches, and assistance from a boom wrecker, the crew successfully extricated all 17 horses.

 

Remarkably, all the animals stood on their own, with only one sustaining a serious injury.

 

After two hours of arduous work in below-freezing conditions, the team also recovered personal items and valuable equipment from the trailer.

 

Fire Chief Kenneth Reeves commended the crew, stating, "This was a once-in-a-career call involving unpredictable risks, including moving animals weighing more than 1,000 pounds."

 

He praised their skill, care, and urgency, which led to the best possible outcome for the horses, their owners, and the firefighters.

 

The recognized personnel include Lieutenant Michael Fuqua and Firefighters Brandon Head, Brandon George, Xavier Harris, Mitch Graves, and Joshua England.

 

Their dedication and bravery exemplify the commitment of the Goodlettsville Fire Department to the community's safety and well-being.

 

Stay tuned into the Sumner County Pulse for more community updates.