Mutilated Horse Dies After Brutal Attack in Northern France

A Community in Shock After Yet Another Attack

In the early hours of Saturday, July 12, a horrific scene unfolded at the Élevage du Loir equestrian center in Angerville-l'Orcher, Normandy. A beloved pony named Qwilcy was found with severe wounds and died shortly after the assault. Her owner, Karine Novick, is heartbroken—and fearful.

“I’m devastated. I can’t take it anymore,” said Karine, voice trembling. “We’re living in fear, constantly checking on our horses, hoping we won’t find another mutilated.” She has filed a formal police report.

This incident marks the fourth attack on horses in the commune since May, and the second targeting Karine’s own center.

A Pattern of Violence Against Horses

The attack on Qwilcy wasn’t isolated. Just two months earlier, on May 7, Karine discovered another of her horses, a Shetland pony named Espionne, mutilated but miraculously still alive. And on June 15, just a few kilometers away, local resident Kévin Crouzat found two of his mares injured—one of which lost her vision due to the extent of the trauma.

The pattern is alarming: peaceful horses injured at night, with wounds consistent with deliberate, targeted mutilation. Though motives remain unclear, the recurrence of such brutality points to intentional acts of cruelty.

Investigation Underway

An official investigation has been launched by the Fécamp gendarmerie. Authorities are treating the case seriously, given the frequency and severity of the attacks. Local horse owners have been urged to reinforce paddock security and report any suspicious activity.

Despite the growing concern, no suspects have been arrested so far.

Animal welfare groups and equine associations are calling for urgent national attention, stressing the need for increased surveillance and harsher penalties for animal cruelty in France.

A Call for Justice—and Protection

For Karine Novick and other equestrian professionals, the trauma goes beyond the loss of a single animal. It is the violation of a deep trust between humans and their animals—and the fear that they may not be able to protect them.

“We need justice. We need safety. We just want to care for our animals in peace,” Karine pleaded.

Until then, Qwilcy’s empty stall is a silent symbol of grief, anger, and the urgent need for action.