Greater Hartford/ Crime & Emergencies

Litchfield Horse Dies After Hit-And-Run Driver Flees Route 118 Crash

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Published on November 13, 2026
Litchfield Horse Dies After Hit-And-Run Driver Flees Route 118 CrashE. Litchfield Rd. — Nearby Route 118 Closure Reference
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A horse belonging to Lee’s Riding Stable was euthanized Wednesday morning after a dark-colored sedan struck the animal on Route 118 in Litchfield and initially fled the scene, according to Connecticut State Police. Troopers later made contact with the driver of the suspected vehicle, though it remains unclear whether charges will be filed.

State police responded to a report of a motor vehicle-versus-horse crash on East Street, as Route 118 is also known, Wednesday morning, according to the Hartford Courant. Initial reports suggested the vehicle, described as a dark-colored sedan last seen traveling on East Street, had evaded the scene after the collision. A veterinarian and animal control officers responded, and the horse, injured in the crash, was ultimately euthanized, WFSB reported.

Road Closed, Then Reopened as Investigation Unfolded

The station reported that Route 118 was closed in both directions near East Litchfield Road at approximately 11:36 a.m. as investigators worked the scene. The roadway has since reopened, per the same account, after troopers finished processing the crash site.

Officers were eventually able to make contact with the driver of the accused vehicle, though it’s unclear if they will face any criminal charges, the station’s report states. State police said they had no additional information available at the time of publication.

Stable Confirms Loss, Crosswalk Detail Disputed

Lee’s Riding Stable confirmed that the horse struck and killed in the crash belonged to them, according to WFSB.

The crash occurred Wednesday morning in Litchfield, according to state police, and the investigation remains open as authorities continue reviewing what led up to the collision.