A semi-truck carrying a load of cattle rolled over on a busy ring road in Calgary on Tuesday night.
Police say the truck, carrying about 95 cattle, was in a single-vehicle crash on an off-ramp from Stoney Trail.
Seventeen of the animals died.
Investigators believe speed was a factor and the driver of the truck failed to negotiate a curve and lost control.
City police worked with firefighters, the RCMP, highway road crew members, cattle rustlers and a veterinarian to rescue the cattle.
Three of the cattle escaped and were captured two hours later.
"This was a highly dynamic situation which required inter-agency collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of the cattle and the public,” said Acting Insp. Scott Neilson.
"The swift response of all involved was crucial in managing this complex call and we are grateful for the support and professionalism demonstrated by everyone on the scene."
