The peaceful streets of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, were suddenly abuzz with excitement as a sneaky pony managed to outfox the local police department in a thrilling two-hour steeplechase.
According to eyewitnesses, the four-year-old pony named Knight had escaped from his home on March 21 and quickly became the talk of the town as he trotted through backyards and along driveways.
Officers tried tempting the runaway pony with peppermints and pizza crusts to lure him back home but to no avail. As the chase continued, the animal was named Ginuwine, after the singer of the steamy horse-themed 1996 hit song “Pony.”
Footage shared by the Tuscaloosa Police Department on social media shows highlights of the low-speed pursuit of the elusive pony.
Finally, after two hours of evading the police, the target was caught. The police department wrote on Facebook, “He was extremely unwilling to go with the officers at first and not interested in the pizza crusts or peppermints they offered. He eventually allowed himself to be caught and was happy to get pets and pose for selfies.”
In a recent interview with TROT, the non-profit organization where riding lessons provide therapy to disabled adults and children, it was revealed that Ginuwine, now known as Knight, would be staying at their farm in Cottondale, east of Tuscaloosa.
“Knight is making friends, learning manners, and still getting comfortable at his new home,” the police department stated.
The owners of the celebrity pony have been located, and it has been confirmed that his real name is Knight. Anyone hoping to glimpse the one-time fugitive can visit the Easter egg hunt at TROT on Saturday, but be warned – Knight may have some more tricks up his sleeve.
This is not the first time a loose pony has caused a stir in a town. Seven years ago, officers in Crawley had to deploy four police vehicles when a similar event unfolded in the West Sussex town. A loose Shetland pony explored the town for over an hour before they could corner it in a garden.
In an interview with a resident who witnessed the thrilling chase, she stated, “It was like something out of a movie. I couldn’t believe how fast and agile that little pony was. It was the talk of the town for a few days. I’m just glad it all ended well for Knight and that he has found a new home where he can be taken care of and loved.”
