The Gilpin family of Slidell, Louisiana, experienced a terrifying incident on January 18 while returning from a horse show. While driving on Interstate 59, a driver of another vehicle lost control and collided with the Gilpin family’s truck and horse trailer. The impact sent their truck flying over a canal, flipping over, while the horse trailer detached and overturned.
In a matter of minutes, 14-year-old Mia Gilpin sprang into action, demonstrating remarkable bravery. She saw her parents trapped in the overturned truck and knew there was only one way to escape. Mia kicked the truck’s window out, despite not having shoes on, and freed herself. As she was getting out, her parents followed suit. After ensuring her parents were safe, Mia turned her attention to the family horse, Whiskey, who was inside the detached trailer.
Mia managed to turn the horse around, led it to safety, and both jumped into the canal to escape the wreckage. The family’s mother, Stacy Gilpin, expressed gratitude toward her daughter, stating that Mia’s quick thinking and courage likely saved all their lives. Stacy also emphasized how close the family came to tragedy, with the truck flipping just inches away from the canal’s edge, where they could have drowned.
The incident was made worse by the fact that the driver responsible for the crash fled the scene. Stacy Gilpin questioned how anyone could leave the family after such a dangerous accident. She highlighted how dark the scene was and how no one would have found them if they had been trapped in the canal.
The Gilpins, including Whiskey, sustained some injuries but are thankful to be alive. Mia described the event as a miracle, stating that she believes divine intervention played a role in their survival. Louisiana State Police confirmed the hit-and-run and are seeking information about the other vehicle, a white pickup truck with potential damage from the crash. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Crimestoppers at 225-344-STOP.
