ATLANTA (AP) — In a surprising and tragic incident, police in Atlanta have reported the discovery of a dead horse found on a busy downtown sidewalk, prompting immediate action to ensure its removal. The Atlanta Police Department took to social media to share the news, confirming that the horse's owner had been located and was cooperating with authorities regarding the situation.

Personnel from both the Atlanta Police Department and the Atlanta Fire Department are currently coordinating efforts to remove the horse in what they described as a "safe and respectful" manner. Authorities have advised the public to avoid the area surrounding Peachtree Street, where the horse was located, while the removal operation is underway. At this point, details regarding the duration that the horse had been deceased or the circumstances surrounding its death remain unclear, as no information has been disclosed immediately following the discovery.

The horse was found on Peachtree Street, which is a major thoroughfare that runs through the heart of downtown Atlanta. Eyewitnesses reported that a video shared on social media early Sunday showcased the unfortunate scene of the horse laying motionless in front of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) at the intersection of Peachtree Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. This jarring discovery shocked pedestrians, who were captured visibly reacting to the situation as they walked past the lifeless animal.

As investigations continue, it raises questions about the welfare of animals in urban environments and the responsibilities of pet owners. The city of Atlanta, known for its vibrant culture and bustling life, now faces a somber moment as it addresses this unexpected situation involving a beloved animal. The Atlanta community is closely watching the developments of this incident as authorities work to understand how such an event occurred and what measures will be taken moving forward to ensure the safety and well-being of animals in the city.