Truck driver falls asleep in France, crashes and kills 64 pigs

The truck was taking the pigs from Belgium to a slaughterhouse in Italy, which is at least a 14-hour drive.  

The accident happened around 7:30 AM on the A26 highway in the Bouranton area. Firefighters evacuated the pigs from the truck, which was on its side. Both dead and surviving animals were piled on top of each other.

The animals were scared and heavy. Some were unable to walk. Using straps, firefighters took out as many pigs as possible before lifting the truck.

A veterinarian examined the animals, euthanizing those that were severely injured. In total, 27 pigs had to be euthanized, bringing the total deaths to 64.

Ninety-six pigs survived and were transported to a collection center in the Marne region for observation.

A disposal service collected the deceased animals. Another truck driver drove the pigs that survived the crash to a slaughterhouse to be killed.

Pig transport in Europe

Meat companies transport millions of pigs from farms to slaughterhouses in different European countries every year. The animals are cramped together in trucks and have to travel long distances.

The route from Belgium to Italy is very long, which is very stressful for animals. The trucks are often overcrowded with pigs who are not able to move or rest. Extreme temperatures also contribute to significant animal welfare concerns.

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