Well-known camel in Agua Dulce struck by pickup, dies

AGUA DULCE, Calif. (KABC) -- A camel that was a fixture in the rural community of Agua Dulce was struck by a pickup truck while taking a walk with its handlers Thursday and later died.

California Highway Patrol officials said the 7 1/2-foot camel named Sheba had to be put down as a result of major injuries to her legs and right shoulder sustained from the crash.

Sheba's handler, Robin Orefice, said she and her son were taking Sheba for a walk at the time of the crash. Police said the 25-year-old driver, who wasn't arrested, was traveling at an unsafe speed when it rammed into the 2,000-pound animal.

Orefice said the one-hump camel shielded her and her son, who were not seriously injured.

No arrests were made as the scene was still being investigated, CHP said.

Orefice, an exotic animal and horse trainer, was preparing to show Sheba at this Saturday's Agua Dulce Country Fair and Parade.