Teen Girl Saves Family and Horse from Terrifying Louisiana Crash

A 14-year-old Louisiana girl has been hailed as a hero after bravely rescuing her family and horse following a terrifying hit-and-run crash on Interstate 59 near Slidell, Louisiana. The young teen, Mia Gilpin, acted quickly and decisively in a moment of crisis, saving her parents and their horse, Whiskey, from potential disaster.

The Gilpin family had been traveling home from a rodeo competition in Mississippi when their vehicle and 12,000-pound horse trailer were struck by a white pickup truck. The impact sent the family’s truck and trailer flying off the road, and the trailer detached, landing near a canal below.

What happened next was nothing short of extraordinary.

The Shocking Crash

The Gilpin family was driving along I-59 when a reckless driver in a white pickup truck crashed into them and sped away without stopping. The force of the impact was so intense that it forced their vehicle off the highway, causing the trailer carrying their horse, Whiskey, to break loose and land in the canal below.

In a situation where most people would be paralyzed by fear, 14-year-old Mia Gilpin immediately sprang into action, showing remarkable courage and presence of mind.

Mia’s Incredible Rescue Efforts

Mia had been asleep in the backseat when the accident occurred. As soon as she woke up, she wasted no time in taking charge of the situation.

“I found my phone and called 911, and while I was on the phone, I found a window and I kicked it out to get us out. I told my parents, ‘I found a way out, follow me.’” — Mia told WBRZ

After successfully guiding her parents out of the wrecked vehicle, Mia realized that their horse, Whiskey, was still trapped in the submerged trailer. Without hesitating, she jumped into the water and swam through the canal to reach him.

“I had to swim through the water to get to him, and I had to open the door in the water to get to him. I really don’t know how I did it.” — Mia

Once inside the water-filled trailer, she saw that Whiskey was standing on shattered glass, injured, and shaking in fear. Mia knew that if she rushed him, he could panic and hurt himself even more. Instead, she calmly comforted him until she could safely lead him out.

Whiskey’s Condition After the Crash

Miraculously, despite the intense crash and traumatic experience, Whiskey only suffered minor injuries. The Gilpin family believes that it was by the grace of God that he survived with only cuts and bruises.

“He was stepping through the glass windows and was cut up, and he was shaking and scared. I was just sitting there trying to talk to him because I knew if I tried to rush him out, he would get hurt.” — Mia

Thankfully, Whiskey is expected to make a full recovery with proper medication and time to heal. The family hopes that he will be able to ride again soon.

Hit-and-Run: The Search for the Driver

As incredible as Mia’s actions were, the fact remains that the driver responsible for this crash fled the scene. The Gilpin family is still in shock and frustration that someone could cause such devastation and drive away without helping.

“I’m also disgusted that the person who hit us didn’t stop. They’re driving around again, potentially putting someone else in danger.” — The Gilpin Family

The Louisiana State Police are currently searching for the driver involved in this hit-and-run. They are urging anyone with information about the white pickup truck to come forward.

How to Help

If you witnessed the crash or have any information about the driver, you are asked to contact Louisiana State Police. Any details could help bring the reckless driver to justice and prevent future accidents.

Mia’s Heroic Actions Inspire Many

Mia’s quick thinking, bravery, and determination saved not only her own life but also the lives of her parents and their beloved horse. At just 14 years old, she showed extraordinary strength in the face of a terrifying situation.

Her courageous rescue efforts have now gained widespread recognition, with people across Louisiana and beyond calling her a true hero.

While the Gilpin family recovers from the accident, Mia’s incredible actions serve as an inspiration—proving that even in the darkest moments, courage and determination can shine through.

Conclusion

The horrifying hit-and-run accident on I-59 near Slidell could have ended in tragedy, but thanks to Mia’s bravery, everyone survived safely, including their horse.

As the Louisiana State Police continue to investigate, the Gilpin family is grateful for their daughter’s heroic efforts. And while Whiskey heals, they can rest assured that they have a strong, courageous young woman looking out for them.

For now, the search for justice continues, and the heroic story of Mia Gilpin reminds us all of the power of bravery and quick thinking in the face of adversity.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

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