A video that has been circulating on social media appears to show two people attempting to board a Detroit city bus with saddled horses in tow. The footage, posted by Facebook user Ellessia Drew, was captured on Saturday as she drove on Seven Mile Road and turned onto Strasburg Street.
City officials confirm authenticity
Alexis Ware, deputy director of media relations for the mayor’s office, told reporters the video is real. “It is a real video,” Ware said in an email, adding that the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) has located the bus driver and is conducting an investigation. Further details are expected on Thursday, Nov. 12.
Transit policy on animals
According to a transportation FAQ on the city’s website, service animals are permitted on DDOT buses, but only guide or signal dogs and other animals trained to assist a person with a disability. Those animals must remain under control at all times. The horses in the video do not meet the definition of a service animal, prompting the city’s inquiry.
What happened on the bus
The video shows the pair of horses being led through one entrance of the bus and then exiting through another door shortly thereafter. No passengers appear to be harmed, and the driver was not reported to be in danger. DDOT spokespersons have not released the name of the driver or the route involved.
Community reaction
Social‑media users expressed a mix of amusement and concern. Some commenters joked about the novelty of a “horse‑carriage” on public transit, while others questioned whether the incident indicated a lapse in enforcement of the city’s animal‑policy guidelines.
Next steps
DDOT says it is reviewing video footage and speaking with the driver to determine how the horses were allowed onto the bus. The department will also assess whether any changes to boarding procedures or staff training are needed to prevent similar occurrences.
Residents who witnessed the incident or have additional information are encouraged to contact DDOT’s customer service line. The city has pledged to keep the public informed as the investigation proceeds.
Original reporting: BridgeDetroit — read the source article.