In a surprising incident reminiscent of the Wild West, New York State police are currently in pursuit of a stolen horse named Koda. Taken from a farm in the Endicott and Union area, Koda has specific dietary restrictions that heighten concerns for his welfare. Authorities describe him as a neutered male gelding with a distinct flea-bitten grey coat, which is a mix of grey and reddish flecks, coupled with a darker muzzle. The concerns for Koda extend beyond his physical characteristics; his dietary needs necessitate immediate retrieval, as failure to address them could lead to dire consequences for his health.
Investigators believe that Koda was stolen from a securely fenced area on Struble Road between July 23 and 24. His owners are understandably anxious about his safety, given his unique requirements. Identification marks on Koda include two distinct brands: a Roman letter “L,” resembling an upside-down “Y,” on his front left shoulder, as well as an upward-pointing arrow with a line beneath it on his rear left flank. These brands are crucial for recognizing Koda if he’s spotted.
The police are appealing to the public for assistance, urging anyone with information to contact them at 607-561-7400, referencing case number NY2500671337. The urgency of their plea underscores the seriousness of the situation, as Koda’s health could deteriorate without timely intervention. This incident serves as a reminder that horse theft remains an issue, even in modern times.
Such thefts are not isolated events. Last year, in a bizarre case, an Amish horse and buggy were stolen from a Michigan Walmart, illustrating that horses continue to be targets for criminals across various contexts. Also, in 2023, a tragic traffic incident unfolded in Dallas, Texas, when three teenagers on stolen horses encountered a disastrous crash, resulting in the death of one boy and two horses. These incidents highlight the risks associated with horse theft not just to the animals, but to individuals involved.
In a particularly horrific case in 2025, a championship horse in St. Petersburg, Florida, was stolen and subsequently butchered before its owners could reclaim it. Such brutal outcomes underline the importance of securing animals and being vigilant against theft. Horse owners are advised to employ safety measures to protect their livestock, such as secure fencing and constant monitoring, especially for animals with specialized care needs.
As the search for Koda intensifies, it serves as a reminder of the unique bond between humans and their horses. The emotional distress felt by Koda’s owners illustrates the deeper implications of such crimes. The agricultural community is called to unite against this form of theft, urging anyone with knowledge to lend their support so that Koda can be found and returned safely to his home.
