In Cabot, Arkansas, a state trooper’s actions have sparked debate after dashcam footage showed his attempts to manage geese on Highway 57. The incident, which occurred on May 24, involved Trooper Christopher Weatherly responding to reports of geese obstructing the roadway between Cabot and Jacksonville.

Dashcam Footage and Public Reaction

The dashcam video, obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request, captures Weatherly’s efforts to address the situation. Initially, the trooper is seen observing the geese and making phone calls. However, as the situation developed, the video shows Weatherly inadvertently running over a gosling while reversing his vehicle.

The Arkansas State Police (ASP) stated that the trooper was dispatched at approximately 9:30 a.m. due to geese creating a hazard on the road, which was bordered by barriers that made it difficult for the birds to exit. ASP emphasized that the trooper attempted to guide the geese off the road to prevent accidents, but two goslings were tragically killed in the process.

Safety Concerns and Official Statements

Col. Mike Hagar, director of the Arkansas State Police, addressed the incident in a Facebook post, highlighting the dangers of unexpected stops on high-speed roadways. He referenced a fatal 2017 crash on Interstate 40 to illustrate the potential consequences of such situations. Hagar explained that the trooper had been instructed to shoot the birds as a last resort to ensure human safety, but he attempted other methods first.

Hagar defended the trooper’s actions, stating that the decision was made with traffic safety in mind. He acknowledged the unfortunate outcome but stressed the importance of prioritizing human life over wildlife in such scenarios.

The incident has drawn criticism online, with some calling for disciplinary action against the trooper. However, Hagar urged the public to consider the broader context of traffic safety and the risks involved.

Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.