Drama in a riding stable

Horse falls into pit and dies after rescue

Despite the great efforts of the emergency services, the horse did not survive the fall into the pit.(Bild: FF Schwechat)

A dramatic operation kept the Schwechat volunteer fire department on its toes on Tuesday evening: a horse had fallen into a workshop pit and could only be rescued with heavy equipment. The emergency services fought for the animal's life - but in the end their efforts were unsuccessful. 

The Schwechat volunteer fire department was alerted at around 6.30 pm: A 33-year-old horse had broken into a workshop pit in a riding stable and was unable to free itself. On site, the incident commanders immediately investigated the situation. Rescuing the animal as gently as possible proved to be extremely difficult.

Ingenious rescue with special equipment
In order to gain access to the pit, the roof of the workshop had to be opened. Using special lifting straps and a swap body vehicle, the rescuers were able to lift the animal. They were supported by experienced colleagues from the Laxenburg volunteer fire department, who had already gained experience in similar operations. A first responder was on standby throughout the operation to ensure the safety of the emergency services.

Despite all efforts: Horse dies
The rescue operation turned out to be extremely complicated and required the utmost caution so as not to endanger the injured animal further. But despite the courageous efforts of everyone involved, the horse succumbed to its injuries at the scene of the accident.