Cowboy Expertise Tames Loose Bull on Busy California Highway

An unexpected call for service on a California highway recently required a unique blend of law enforcement efforts and specialized animal handling expertise.

On Tuesday evening, deputies from the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to assist the California Highway Patrol (CHP) following reports of a large bull roaming freely on Highway 35. The incident saw officers attempting to manage the animal, until a local expert arrived to lend his crucial assistance in bringing the wandering bovine under control.

According to the sheriff's department, initial efforts by authorities to corral the bull proved unsuccessful for several hours. Recognizing the need for specific skills, deputies made the decision to reach out to an individual with extensive experience in handling large livestock.

Expert Intervention Secures Highway

Samuel Ramos Palomino, a foreman at Sea Horse Ranch in Half Moon Bay, became the key figure in resolving the situation. With 35 years of experience working with large animals, Palomino was asleep when authorities contacted him shortly after midnight. Despite needing to be at work by 4 a.m., he promptly responded, preparing his truck and livestock trailer to assist.

The task ahead was formidable, officials noted. Palomino collaborated with deputies and CHP officers, pursuing the bull over several miles and making repeated attempts to lasso it. Eventually, their combined efforts allowed them to successfully secure the animal by its horns.

Once the bull was contained, Palomino utilized his expertise to safely load it into his trailer. He went further by arranging a secure temporary location for the bull until it could be returned to its home at daybreak.

Timely Resolution and Recognition

By the time the operation concluded, it was approximately 2:30 a.m., leaving Palomino with only 90 minutes before his workday began, the sheriff's department reported.

The department highly praised the foreman's direct involvement, crediting him with likely averting a serious collision or injury on the busy thoroughfare.

Coastside Patrol Bureau Captain Allen and Half Moon Bay City Manager Chidester later met with Palomino personally to express their gratitude for his prompt response.

Samuel, thank you for answering ours. Your skill, courage, and willingness to help made the Coastside a safer place that night.