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'Please drive carefully' | Turtle suffering major injuries after being hit by vehicle in Stafford County

The center said that the snapping turtle suffered a jaw fracture and head trauma.

STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. — A turtle is being treated after being hit by a car in Stafford County, which has led officials to remind drivers to be careful on the roads as temps start to warm.

The Stafford County Sheriff's Office stated on their Facebook page that Turt Reynolds, the name they gave the turtle, was spotted on Kings Highway after being struck by a passing car. They say that a good Samaritan stopped and contacted Animal Control for help. Deputy O.J. Martins responded and was able to rescue the turtle.

He is now being treated for his injuries at Blue Ridge Wildlife Center. 

Turt Reynolds Turt Reynolds was on Kings Highway, East bound and down, after being struck by a passing car. ...

Posted by Office of Stafford County Sheriff - David "DP" Decatur, Sheriff on Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Credit: Blue Ridge Wildlife Center

The center said on their Facebook page that the snapping turtle suffered a jaw fracture and head trauma after a suspected vehicle collision. He was taken to the AERO Animal Education and Rescue Organization, and once stable, was transported to the center for surgical repair.

They say the prognosis for Turt Reynolds is still guarded due to the level of head trauma, but they will continue to provide supportive care with the hope it will resolve fully as the jaw fracture heals.

This snapping turtle was found on the road with a jaw fracture and head trauma after a suspected vehicle collision and...

Posted by Blue Ridge Wildlife Center on Sunday, April 28, 2024

The wildlife center says that with warmer weather many turtles are out and active, resulting them coming into rehabilitation at an alarming rate. They say people should remember to drive carefully.

"It's hard to miss a 20+ pound slow-moving turtle, but if an accident does occur, please don't leave an animal like this on the road to die," the wildlife center stated. "With the level of head trauma seen in this case, this snapper would very likely have overheated on the asphalt and died over the next 48 hours or so."

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