MAURY COUNTY, Tenn. - Maury County Sheriff's detectives believe they may have solved the mysterious deaths of one stallion and six mares at a Columbia farm last week.
Detectives believed the horses likely died from accidental botulism poisoning. The deadly toxin can form in moist, rotting hay, and horses are especially susceptible to botulism.
There was no sign of foul play when the carcasses of the horses were discovered last week.
To be certain, investigators sent one carcass to the state Department of Agriculture for an autopsy. They expect to have confirmation by Wednesday evening.