WILMINGTON, N.C. – A mounted Wilmington police officer was hit from behind by a motorist in downtown early Saturday morning, injuring the police horse, officials said.

What You Need To Know

  • Elton the police horse was hit by a driver early Saturday morning

  • Elton, who has been with the Wilmington police for 16 years, is being treated for an injury to his left leg

  • The driver in the crash faces charges including DWI

The officer was not injured, and Elton the police horse was being treated, the Wilmington Police Department said in a news release Saturday.

The mounted officer was on South Front Street about 2:28 a.m. when the officer was struck as a driver tried to pass, police said. Elton’s left leg was injured in the crash.

The driver, Alexis Williamson, 24, was charged with DWI, improper passing and failure to reduce speed, police said.

Police said Williamson’s blood-alcohol level was 0.19, over the legal limit of 0.08.

“We are praying for a quick recovery for our hard-working horse, Elton,” Chief Donny Williams stated in the news release. “We are ensuring he receives the best medical care and at the latest check, Elton is able to put weight on his injured leg.”

Elton, a Percheron, has been with the police department for 16 years, Williams stated.