3-year-old girl kicked in the head by wild horse at Mt. Charleston

A family outing at Mt. Charleston took a terrifying turn when a wild horse kicked a three-year-old girl from Logandale in the head, leaving her unconscious. The incident occurred as the family was at Lee Meadows for a photo shoot, with two wild horses unexpectedly approaching the picnic area where they were gathered. Mother Haley Wilkey recounted the harrowing moment when her daughter, Olivia, was struck by the horse, causing panic and distress among the family members.

In the midst of the chaos, Haley’s husband rushed to seek help, driving down the mountain to call for assistance due to the lack of cell service in the area. A stranger who happened to be nearby came to their aid, providing first aid supplies and assisting in applying pressure to Olivia’s head wound to control the bleeding. The family’s quick thinking and the stranger’s timely intervention played a crucial role in stabilizing the young girl until medical help arrived.

The severity of the situation became apparent as they struggled to stem the bleeding, with both Haley and the stranger working tirelessly to keep Olivia stable until the ambulance arrived. The little girl was swiftly transported to UMC via helicopter, where medical professionals were able to assess her condition and provide necessary treatment. Despite the initial shock and fear, Olivia showed signs of improvement during her hospital stay, offering a glimmer of hope to her relieved parents.

The family expressed their gratitude towards the unknown bystander who stepped in to assist during their moment of crisis, acknowledging his role in potentially saving Olivia’s life. Their heartfelt thanks and appreciation underscored the importance of community support and kindness in times of need. As they reflected on the incident, the Wilkey family emphasized the need for caution around wild horses at Mt. Charleston, urging other parents to be vigilant and maintain a safe distance from these unpredictable animals.

In a show of solidarity and support, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover Olivia’s medical expenses, showcasing the generosity and compassion of strangers touched by their story. The Wilkey family’s ordeal serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters and the importance of staying vigilant in outdoor settings. As Olivia continues her recovery journey, the family remains grateful for the outpouring of support and well wishes from the community.

As the incident draws to a close, the Wilkey family’s resilience and gratitude shine through, serving as a testament to the power of unity and compassion in overcoming adversity. The heartwarming response to their plight reaffirms the bonds that connect us all, reminding us of the strength found in coming together in times of crisis. The Wilkey family’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unforeseen challenges.