Birdie, an 8-year-old quarter horse, tragically lost her life in a car accident on the Key Peninsula on December 29, 2024, after being spooked and escaping her paddock. The accident occurred near state Route 302, where the horse was struck by a vehicle shortly after 5:15 p. m. Fortunately, the driver was unharmed, but Birdie succumbed to her injuries, leaving her owner, Amanda Dominguez, devastated. Dominguez conveyed the profound impact the loss had on her 12-year-old daughter, who had formed a special bond with the horse.

The community rallied around the family, offering flowers, cards, and support, demonstrating the strength of local connections during times of grief. Dominguez expressed gratitude for the kindness shown, including a passerby who provided a blanket to cover Birdie's eyes. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks animals face near busy roads and the emotional repercussions for families involved in such accidents. Local authorities, including the Key Peninsula Fire Department and Washington State Patrol, responded to the scene, highlighting the collaborative efforts of community safety services.