Goat on the Loose: Police Deploy Riot Shields in Unconventional Chase

Key Takeaways

• A runaway goat was safely lassoed by police in a Wiltshire village after going on a rampage
• The goat was seen chasing a woman and trying to eat oranges from a Christmas wreath
• Police used riot shields and a lasso to round up the animal and return it to its owner
• The incident highlights the importance of safely and humanely handling animals, even in unexpected situations
• Similar incidents have occurred in the past, such as an attempt to retrieve a stranded goat in Cumbria, which led to an emergency call-out

Introduction to the Incident
An unusual incident occurred in the Wiltshire village of Upper Seagry, near Chippenham, when a goat escaped and went on a rampage. The runaway ruminant mammal was seen trotting around the village, causing concern among residents. According to an eyewitness, the goat was chasing a woman and attempting to eat oranges from a Christmas wreath. This unexpected behavior led to a call to the local authorities, who responded quickly to contain the situation.

Police Response and Lassoing the Goat
Wiltshire police responded swiftly to the call, using riot shields and a lasso to round up the animal. The police officers, PC Ferris and PC Miller, from Chippenham Response, demonstrated their expertise in handling the situation, taking control of the goat and preventing any further damage or harm. Body-worn camera footage captured the moment when the officers attempted to lasso the goat, with one of them commenting, "Apparently it’s not very nice." The officer also added, "We’ve got it on a tow line, we’ve got some [riot] shields because he’s trying to butt my head." The goat briefly slipped the lasso but was re-captured and taken home safely.

The Goat’s Antics and Safety Concerns
The incident highlights the importance of safely and humanely handling animals, even in unexpected situations. The goat’s behavior, although seemingly amusing, posed a risk to the public, particularly the woman it was chasing. Additionally, the animal’s attempt to munch on safety equipment from the back of the officer’s car demonstrates the potential risks involved in handling unpredictable animals. The use of riot shields and a lasso by the police officers was a prudent decision, ensuring the safety of both the public and the animal.

Similar Incidents and Emergency Call-Outs
This incident is not an isolated case, as similar events have occurred in the past. In October, an attempt to retrieve a stranded goat at the bottom of a bridge arch led to an emergency call-out in Cumbria. Three fire crews and police were sent to Longtown Bridge in Carlisle after reports that someone had gone into the water while trying to reach the animal. Although the person managed to extricate themselves, fire officers were sent to retrieve the animal to prevent a repeat incident. This incident underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and seeking professional help when dealing with animals in distress or unexpected situations.

Conclusion and Reflection
The successful containment of the runaway goat in Upper Seagry is a testament to the quick thinking and expertise of the Wiltshire police officers involved. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations and prioritizing safety when handling animals. By responding swiftly and using appropriate equipment, the police officers ensured a safe outcome for both the public and the animal. As the Wiltshire police spokesperson noted, "PC Ferris and PC Miller, from Chippenham Response, swiftly responded, controlled the situation and returned the goat to his owner." This incident will likely be remembered as an unusual but successful operation, highlighting the importance of effective communication, quick thinking, and professionalism in emergency situations.