10/23/2026
Sheriff’s Office Provides Update on At-Large Wild Mustang
SEDGWICK COUNTY, Kan. — The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is providing an update on the wild mustang previously reported at-large.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) previously placed the wild mustang with new owners. The mustang escaped from its owners Oct. 9, 2026, near Mulvane.
On Oct. 20, a member of the Wichita Police Department Mounted Unit was contacted to assist with efforts to contain the mustang.
On Oct. 22, the Sheriff’s Office received information that the mustang was last seen near 55th Street South and Hoover Road. The Sheriff’s Office shared the information with community members through social media.
On Oct. 23, members of the Wichita Police Department Mounted Unit and drones were deployed to search for the mustang. The Mounted Unit was equipped with a tranquilizer gun, tranquilizers, ropes, and panels. The mustang was located approximately 600 yards away from the unit’s staging area.
After the Mounted Unit moved approximately 20 yards from it’s staging area, the mustang began running south toward additional roadways and the motoring public. Due to the distance, the animal’s movement, and its proximity to roadways, members could not get close enough to administer tranquilizers or contain the mustang.
The mustang continued entering roadways, creating traffic hazards, and posing a risk to motorists and community members. Deputies responded to assist with traffic control and address public safety concerns.
The Sheriff’s Office consulted with the mustang’s owners, the BLM, Animal Control, and experts experienced in safely handling horses. Based on the mustang’s continued movement near roadways and the inability to safely contain it, those consulted determined that euthanasia was the only remaining option to address the ongoing public safety risk. The BLM and owner authorized euthanasia.
On the afternoon of Oct. 23, deputies euthanized the mustang near 71st Street South and West Street.
The Sheriff’s Office recognizes that this outcome is upsetting, particularly for community members who followed the situation. Deputies did not make this decision lightly. Those involved worked to find a safe resolution while considering the well-being of the animal and the safety of community members.
The Sheriff’s Office appreciates the cooperation and assistance of everyone involved in this difficult situation. Protecting community members remains our top priority.
** Original Post **
COMMUNITY ADVISORY: AT-LARGE HORSE
The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is alerting the public about a wild mustang last believed to be near 55th Street South and Hoover Road.
The horse’s owner has been unable to safely contain the animal. Please use caution in the area, especially while driving.
If you see the horse:
• Do not approach, chase, or attempt to capture it.
• Keep a safe distance and avoid startling the animal.
• Call 911 immediately with its location and direction of travel.
Please share this advisory to help keep motorists, residents, and the animal safe.
