Teen from Oakville dies in riding accident
Police investigating after horse gets caught up in marshy bog off Hwy. 5 in Flamborough
An Oakville girl who died after the horse she was riding became stuck in a marshy bog is being described as “a bright light” who will be sorely missed.
Zara Buren was pronounced dead Monday night after the incident near Millgrove Side Road and Highway 5 in Flamborough.
Shortly before 5:30 p.m. on Monday, the teen and her mother, both from the Oakville area, were riding their horses on a property situated along Millgrove Side Road.
The experienced riders were riding on a path not familiar to them when the horse being ridden by the 14-year-old “became trapped” in a marshy bog, police said in a release.
The rider was able to dismount the horse and while waiting for help, “she became submerged and a short time later she was pulled from the marsh without vital signs,” police said in a release.
The rider was transported to the hospital, however, she died from her injuries.
Hamilton police are investigating the incident. But, in the meantime, the teen is being remembered online by many, including her coach Holly Jacks, as a passionate rider with drive, determination and an infectious smile.
“You were a strong force to be reckoned with,” Jacks said in a Facebook post.
“You were brave until the very end.”
“The world lost an angel and a bright light has been extinguished,” Carole Partridge wrote on Facebook. “A tragic accident took her from us and at this time her family needs all the love in the world.”
Kathleen Wilson said she posted a heartwarming tribute to Buren at the family’s request.
“We lost a beautiful young rider last night,” she wrote.
Buren is listed as a registered Ontario equestrian who rides a horse named “Make My Day” with a barn name of “Monkey.” Buren’s discipline is event riding, according to OntarioEquestrian.ca.