Judge’s Office Comments on Trail Ride Death

Fayette County Officials are well aware of the tragic situation that occurred April 25 on private property on Munke Road south of La Grange. The situation was the result of a trail ride and gathering.

(Details of the fatal shooting, the second in two years at such events, were in Friday’s Record.)

The County Judge’s office, the Sheriff’s office and the County Attorney’s office are coordinating efforts to determine what, if any, solutions are available to the County.

“Last August, we approved a ‘mass gathering’ ordinance that strictly follows state law. Any gathering that is expected to have an attendance of 2,500 people or more must apply for a ‘mass gathering’ permit. The event that took place on April 25 on Munke Road did not meet the standards of the State’s description of ‘mass gathering,’ ” said County Judge Dan Mueller.

Sheriff Keith Korenek said, “We are not always made aware of these gatherings until something happens and law enforcement or EMS services are needed.”

EMS Director Josh Vandever stated, “My primary concern is for our first responders to be able to safely and effectively care for our county’s residents and visitors.”

County Attorney James Herbrich said, “We are actively working with the Texas Association of Counties to find solutions to these gatherings with large amounts of people, even those that don’t reach the number assessed by the State.”

“County governments have traditionally had a limited amount of regulatory authority, and in the case of mass gatherings, have followed state law,” said EMC Angela Hahn.