Chincoteague VFC announces death of “Goldie”

The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company has announced the death of one of the island’s wild ponies, confirming that “Two Teague’s Golden Girl,” known affectionately as Goldie, was found deceased earlier today.

In a statement posted to its Facebook page, the fire company said Goldie’s death was the result of becoming trapped in mud within a borrow ditch. According to the post, borrow ditches on the marsh can contain “bottomless” mud and are areas ponies typically avoid, with only a few known crossings where animals safely travel.

The post continued incidents like this are often the result of what they described as simple missteps, such as a pony losing footing on the marsh, rolling the wrong way, or becoming spooked or chased.

The fire company noted that Goldie’s herd had been checked recently, indicating the incident likely occurred sometime overnight or early this morning.

Members of the Chincoteague Pony Committee are working to recover Goldie from the marsh and ensure she is laid to rest in what the fire company described as a more appropriate and respectful final resting place.

The announcement was shared by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, which plays a central role in the care and management of the island’s famed wild ponies.