(RIO LINDA, CA) — Sacramento County Sheriff’s North Patrol deputies had an unusual call on Sunday evening, Jan.25, when reports came in about livestock roaming the streets. Around 7:15 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the intersection of W. 4th Street and W. Q Street in Rio Linda after drivers spotted three cows and a horse walking down the middle of the road, according to the Sheriff's official social media posts on Instagram and Facebook.
Deputies quickly responded, temporarily stopping traffic and working together to safely corral the animals. With patience and teamwork, the livestock were guided back to their property without injury or incident.
The Sheriff’s Office shared the story on Instagram:
(Photo of Instagram post.)
“Not your average evening call! Around 7:15 PM, North Patrol Deputies were dispatched to the area of W. 4th St. and W. Q St. in Rio Linda for reports of three cows and a horse walking down the middle of the road. With some patience and teamwork, Deputies safely corralled the animals and secured them back on their property. Never a boring night in patrol!” — @sacsheriff
OpGov.ai reports community reactions poured in on social media, adding humor and concern to the story. On Facebook, commenters joked:
*“A horse and couple cows walk into a bar…” — Inna Welborn
*“The grass is greener on the other side” — Tracy Robinson
Others expressed concern for the horse’s condition:
*“That poor horse looks abused… Great job officers.” — Lu-Ann Harrington
*“Someone needs to care for that horse.” — Lisa Cachia
Rio Linda is an unincorporated community in Sacramento County, meaning it does not have its own city government and relies on the county for law enforcement and public services. Incidents like this highlight the rural character of the area, where livestock encounters are not uncommon.
Officials remind residents that if livestock is seen on a roadway and poses an immediate hazard, call 911. For non-emergencies, contact the Sheriff’s non-emergency line at (916) 874-5115 or Animal Control at (916) 875-5232. OpGov.ai reports drivers encountering loose animals should keep a safe distance, turn on hazard lights, and wait for trained personnel to avoid spooking the animals.
Submit tips and story ideas to Sarah Denos at sarahkdenos@gmail.com.
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