DDOT Reviews Video of Two Horses Walking Onto a Detroit Bus

A viral video showing two saddled horses walking onto a Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) bus has been confirmed as authentic, leaving city officials to investigate how the animals were allowed on board.

The footage, which began circulating on social media, depicts handlers leading the horses through the front doors of a city bus before they exit through the middle doors.

The incident shows the bus driver maneuvering the vehicle to let the two horses board at a bus stop. After the brief, bizarre transit excursion, the horses were led away by their handlers. On Nov. 10, the city officially acknowledged the event, confirming that DDOT staff are aware of the incident and are reviewing the circumstances, according to a statement to Local 4.

While the sight of livestock on public transit is a departure from standard operations, the city maintains strict guidelines regarding who—and what—can ride. According to a transportation FAQ on the city’s website, service animals are permitted on buses, but this classification is reserved for guide or signal dogs or animals trained to help someone with a disability.

DDOT issued a statement noting that allowing horses to walk through a bus as it was pulled over at a bus stop is not consistent with existing agency policy.

Beyond the procedural breach, officials emphasized that such incidents potentially create an unsafe and uncomfortable environment for other commuters. The city has confirmed that they have located the bus driver, but further details regarding the investigation will remain under wraps until Thursday, Nov. 12.

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The video, which appeared on Instagram and was later shared on Facebook by a user who said she caught the scene on camera while driving on 7 Mile, has sparked a wave of online speculation. The footage includes a voice reacting in disbelief, shouting, “I know you f***in’ lyin’! What is they doin’?” while the horses are led onto the vehicle.

The exact location of the bus stop remains unclear, as there are no distinguishing landmarks visible in the 45-second recording. The city of Detroit has confirmed that they are actively conducting an investigation into the incident.

Did 2 horses really get on a public bus in Detroit? Here’s what the city says

DDOT policy states that service animals are allowed on buses, provided they are individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability, and must be under the control of the person with a disability at all times.

Pets and animals used solely for emotional support or comfort are not permitted. Animals must not occupy a passenger seat and need to sit on the floor or the person’s lap.

The city has confirmed that they have located the driver and an investigation is underway. Officials have indicated that they will not release further information regarding the incident until Thursday, Nov. 12.