Upstate horse attacks caused by wild boars, SLED says

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Wild boars are responsible for a rash of horse attacks across the Upstate, according to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

The Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Spartanburg County Environmental Enforcement Division, Polk County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina and SLED have concluded based on evidence that the horse attacks are results of altercations with wild boars in the area.

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The joint investigation involved five incidents that took place within a four-week span across both Greenville and Spartanburg counties. Animal tracks consistent with hogs, video evidence and the sighting of boars in the area support the conclusion. The S.C. Department of Natural Resources and several veterinary professionals were consulted and assisted in the investigation.

An investigation into a horse shooting last month in Greenville County remains under investigation and is separate and not connected to this investigation.

“While all of these incidents were extremely unfortunate, I am very thankful for the men and women who worked tirelessly to investigate these cases,” said Greenville County Sheriff Johnny Mack Brown. “In addition, I want to convey to our community members that our agency has and will continue to patrol these rural areas to ensure our citizens and their respective animals are safe and secure and for them to know that we have an active open channel of communication for anyone who has questions or concerns.”

The population of wild boars in the area has significantly increased in the last several years, according to officials. To help control the increasing population of wild boars, SCDNR has authorized hunting during day and night of these animals with special permit. Information about the growing wild boar problem and recommendations for management and control is available on DNR’s website here.

(Photo attribution here.)

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