Authorities in Pearland are searching for the driver of a white sedan involved in a hit-and-run that killed a horse and injured its rider on Saturday night.
KPRC 2 reporter Corley Peel spoke exclusively with the rider, 22-year-old Carlos Godinez, who is now home from the hospital. Godinez said his horse’s name was Muñeco, which means “doll” in Spanish. He received Muñeco as a gift just four months ago.
The crash happened around 7:38 p.m. in the 1800 block of O’Day Road.
According to the Pearland Police Department, a small white sedan struck the horse and rider before fleeing northbound without stopping.
Godinez said he was taking Muñeco on a walk. He said it was dark outside, but Muñeco never gets spooked on walks. He said a car came out of nowhere.
“I was happily riding my horse while talking on the phone. I initially did not see any car, but suddenly, a car appeared out of nowhere and crashed into us. The impact was very strong. I fell onto the ground and my horse became unconscious after falling into a ditch,” Godinez said.
Godinez’s uncle, Jesus, tells KPRC 2 he rushed to the scene where he saw Godinez shocked and in tears.
Police said Muñeco sustained severe injuries and had to be euthanized on the scene. Godinez was transported to a nearby hospital.
During the investigation, police discovered a passenger-side mirror assembly at the scene. Surveillance footage from a nearby residence captured the collision, and authorities believe the suspect’s vehicle will have significant front-end damage, particularly on the passenger side, and a missing passenger-side mirror.
Godinez described Muñeco as tall, obedient and beautiful. He said his death is like losing a friend, and he is hoping for justice for his horse.
“I want accountability,” said Godinez.
Pearland police are urging residents and business owners in the area to review surveillance footage from Dec. 14, between 7:30 and 8 p.m., for any signs of a white sedan with visible damage.
If you have any information or footage, please contact the Pearland Police Department Criminal Investigations Tip Line at 281-997-4211 and reference Case #24-011006.