Assateague pony hit by car and killed

An 18-year-old stallion was killed in a Thursday night car crash on the Maryland side of Assateague, according to an Assateague National Park Service Facebook post.  

The pony, N2BHSX, also known as Jester, was struck at about 8 p.m. on Oct. 5 on the causeway near the bridge, the post stated, and was dead when law enforcement arrived on the scene.

There was no obvious external trauma, according to the post, so officials assumed the pony succumbed to severe internal injuries.

The post shows law enforcement officers are investigating to determine whether they will bring charges against the driver. 

RELATED: Assateague Island pony dies in vehicle collision

Since 1982, 31 horses have been killed on the island's seashore roads, with 17 killed on the causeway where Jester was struck. In July 2016, a 16-year-old stallion was hit in Maryland and ultimately euthanized as a result of his injuries, marking the 30th death.

Another pony was found dead on Assateague Island in July of this year at a Maryland campground as a result of consuming a large amount of dog food.

The National Park Service is asking drivers to remain vigilant as they travel through the area because ponies can react in unexpected ways and may be easily startled into roadways.

RELATED: Assateague pony dies after eating dog food

"Obey all posted speed limits," the post states. "However, when approaching the horses on the side of the road, it may be necessary to drive slower than the posted speed limit."

Visitors are also being asked not to encourage ponies to approach their vehicles because it is illegal and encourages the animals to remain dangerously close to the roadways.