Town officials are investigating the cause of Sunday’s escape of eight bulls, which then roamed the surrounding area before being captured.
At the Sept. 23 Town Council meeting, Town Manager Michael Borg reaffirmed the town’s commitment to safety and noted that an investigation is underway to determine how the escape happened.
“I want to stand by the processes we put into place,” he said.
Town Council President Justin Pare expressed concern over the incident.
“This body would be very interested to hear the report… and an assessment so something that puts the public in danger doesn’t happen again,” he said.
Eight bulls escaped from a rodeo event in the Emerald Square Mall parking lot on Sunday, Sept. 22.
The bulls managed to leap over a perimeter fence after escaping their pen, briefly roaming through residential areas and crossing Route 1. Six of the bulls were found behind a fence on Prescott Street in neighboring Attleboro and were safely rounded up by first responders and the New England Rodeo team. The final bull was located the next evening, Sept. 23, using a drone.
No individuals were injured when the bulls initially escaped, though a professional wrangler called in to assist with the capture of the last bull did suffer a shoulder injury.
Assistant Town Manager Antonio Morabito and Police Chief Richard McQuade explained that the event’s permits, which included outdoor events, building inspection and food service, did not involve an inspection of the bull corral. A preliminary theory suggests a loose pin in the corral allowed the escape, though this remains unconfirmed.
The town’s Special Events Working Group had reviewed and approved the event. However, in light of the incident, North Attleborough officials—including Borg and Pare—are committed to finding the root cause and strengthening safety measures for future events.
State Rep. Adam Scanlon (D-North Attleborough) has also voiced concerns about the adequacy of current public safety regulations for such events. He noted that while this incident had a positive outcome, it raises serious questions about whether enough safeguards are in place. Scanlon announced that his office would explore potential legislation addressing minimum operational standards, including proper event siting, clearer oversight and mandatory notification to local animal control. He aims to ensure that rodeo operators follow responsible practices, drawing inspiration from states like Rhode Island and Kansas, which have laws relating to rodeo safety and animal welfare.
Despite the disruption, the quick response from first responders and local assistance ensured a safe outcome. As the town continues its investigation, officials are focused on preventing future incidents and ensuring that events are held with the highest safety standards in place.
