Horse mutilated, killed in Williamson Co. pasture

TENNESSEE -- A picturesque part of Middle Tennessee is the scene of a shocking crime. Someone mutilated then killed a beloved horse, and the owner says the animal died in a tremendous amount of pain.

She's also worried whoever did it will do it again.

The McIlvains have lived outside Fairview for 36 years and say the reason they have stayed is the beautiful front yard pasture for their two Paso Fino horses, Bomber and Falderado.

"Paso Finos are a special breed. They are smart and very close to their rider. They take care of their rider and are very affectionate and want a lot of attention and love," said owner Barbara McIlvain.

But while the family was out of town Friday night, someone killed Bomber and even cut off body parts to keep as trophies.

"We are not sure how they did it other than the trophies they took - the ear and the other trophies they took," Barbara McIlvain said. "He fought a lot. His legs dug into the ground. He thrashed and had a terrible look on his face. We know he died in pain."

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Williamson County Animal Control and Williamson County Sheriff's Office all sent investigators to examine the horse and the crime scene. While detectives don't yet have a suspect, the McIlvains have their own suspicions.

Recently, they found someone had tied knots in Bomber's mane and put briers in the knots, so when the horse moved, it caused him pain.

"I want everyone to know. I want as many people as possible to know, because I want these people caught," McIlvain said.

The McIlvains are offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the people who killed Bomber. If you have information that could help detectives, call the Williamson County Sheriff's Office.

(WSMV - Nov 11, 2013)