Galilee Horse Collisions on Route 65 Leave One Dead and Another Injured
Two accidents involving loose horses on Route 65 in the Galilee within a week have resulted in one fatality and severe injuries, prompting police investigations into animal owners.
A tragic week in the Galilee has highlighted a growing hazard after two separate collisions involving loose horses and moving vehicles on Route 65. The latest incident resulted in the death of 30-year-old Samer Rabah from Deir Hanna, who was killed when his car collided with a horse near Eilabun.
Deadly Crash on Route 65
The emergency services received a report of the collision at 05:57. First responders found Rabah unconscious inside his vehicle, without a pulse and not breathing, and were forced to pronounce him dead at the scene. The horse involved in the crash also died. Traffic investigators from the Kinneret police district have launched an investigation to locate the owner of the horse that strayed onto the highway.
This fatal crash occurred just one week after a similar accident nearby, which left an 80-year-old Galilee resident severely injured. The elderly woman, identified only as N., was traveling south with her son near the Golani Junction when a panicked horse suddenly appeared on the road.
The horse hit us with tremendous force, throwing me forward and backward, and my back was broken. The front windshield shattered, and glass fragments flew at my son who was driving.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Concern
N. was evacuated to the Poria Medical Center, where tests revealed a spinal fracture. She was fitted with a rigid brace that she must wear whenever she gets out of bed. Speaking about the incident, she expressed frustration that the person reportedly trying to control the horse had seemingly exacerbated the animal's panic by waving his hands.
The string of dangerous incidents has raised serious questions among local residents regarding animal negligence and road safety in the region. Authorities continue their search for the owners responsible for allowing the livestock to roam near major traffic arteries.
