Calgary police are investigating the rollover of a semi-trailer carrying cattle that left 17 cows dead on Tuesday evening.
The single-vehicle crash occurred on the off-ramp from eastbound Stoney Trail S.E. to southbound Macleod Trail at around 8:10 p.m. on Tuesday, according to a release.
Police said they were called with reports that a cattle liner carrying approximately 95 cattle had rolled over.
Speed is being investigated as a factor in the incident. Investigators said the semi-trailer failed to negotiate a curve as it took the exit onto Macleod Trail. The trailer came to rest on the left side of the roadway.
The driver was taken to the hospital with minor injuries, said police.
Cattle wranglers and a veterinarian responded to the scene, as did city police and firefighters, RCMP and highway road crew members.
While rescue efforts were underway, three cows escaped the cattle liner. They were corralled after nearly two hours, police said.
“This was a highly dynamic situation which required inter-agency collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of the cattle and the public,” said Acting Insp. Scott Neilson of District 8.
“The swift response of all involved was crucial in managing this complex call, and we are grateful for the support and professionalism demonstrated by everyone on the scene.”
Police said they do not believe alcohol or drugs were factors in the incident.