Neighbors in Hockley are keeping a nervous eye on the fence line this week, as a massive bull estimated at about 2,000 pounds has been roaming the Robins Road area and edging dangerously close to busy FM 2920. The free-ranging heavyweight has been spotted over several days, wandering near the highway and rattling residents who worry that one wrong turn could send it into fast-moving traffic. Drivers on FM 2920 routinely hit 60 to 70 mph, and locals fear a serious crash if the animal makes it onto the roadway.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office says deputies are actively trying to corral the bull but have not yet been able to reach the leaseholder responsible for the pasture where it belongs. Any injuries or property damage tied to the animal would be the leaseholder’s responsibility, according to KHOU. In the meantime, deputies are urging residents and drivers to use caution while crews work to secure the bull.
Sandee McDonald told KHOU the animal walked right up to her vehicle. “It stood by my pickup,” she said, estimating the bull at roughly 2,000 pounds. Neighbors say they have seen the animal multiple times over several days and are especially uneasy about its habit of drifting toward FM 2920.
Harris County’s track record with roaming animals
This is not the first time Harris County deputies have had to play cowboy in recent months. In late January, the sheriff’s office returned a stray bull to its property after what was jokingly described as an “unscheduled neighborhood tour,” the Houston Chronicle reported. That earlier response, which included social media updates from Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, showed how quickly deputies can move when loose livestock wander near busy roads.
Who to call and how to stay safe
Authorities say anyone who spots the Hockley bull and believes it poses an immediate danger should call 9-1-1. For non-emergency sightings, residents can contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office at (713) 221-6000, or the Livestock Office at (832) 927-2969 during business hours…