Steers escape after trailer latch malfunctions on Texas highway
- Six roping steers escaped from a trailer on a Texas highway due to a malfunctioning latch.
- The incident caused traffic disruptions on the Interstate 45 North Freeway while authorities responded.
- The owners later realized one steer was still missing after all others were secured.
On March 25, 2025, a significant incident unfolded on a Texas highway when six roping steers escaped from a trailer. The Harris County Sheriff's Office reported that just before noon, the latch on the trailer's door came undone while en route to Barnum, Texas, after the cattle had participated in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The runaway steers created a scene on the Interstate 45 North Freeway, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. Authorities had to close multiple traffic lanes to ensure public safety and to capture the loose animals. Fortunately, the driver of the truck managed to control the remaining 25 steers, which assisted in the incident's resolution. After hours of efforts, all but one steer were accounted for, with the sixth steer going missing. Investigators are now taking steps to determine whether the trailer was adequately secured before the incident occurred. The steers belong to the Kueckelhan family from Bonham, Texas, who had leased 55 steers for the event. Upon returning home, the family was shocked to find one steer unaccounted for, highlighting the ongoing concerns for animal safety during transportation.