An animal rights group is calling on the Calgary Humane Society and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to launch an investigation into a tractor-trailer crash in Calgary on Tuesday that claimed the life of 17 cows.

Animal Justice sent a letter to both organizations urging them to take action following a rollover in the area of ​​Stoney Trail SE and Macleod Trail SE Tuesday evening involving a truck carrying 95 cattle.

“We ask that you investigate and lay charges under the Health of Animals Act and the Animal Protection Act, where appropriate,” reads the letter, signed by Alexandra Pester, lawyer for Animal Justice.

“Consistent enforcement of these laws is necessary to protect animals during transport – a process during which they are at significant risk of physical and psychological harm. »

Police believe the driver of the truck failed to navigate a curve and lost control on the eastbound Stoney Trail exit ramp towards the southbound Macleod Trail.

In an emailed statement, the Calgary Humane Society said this incident appears to be more of a Highway Safety Act issue regarding speeding or reckless driving, noting that the Calgary Police Service ( CPS) investigation.

“If there are considerations of animal cruelty, the CPS is able to enforce these sections of the Criminal Code in addition to the relevant provincial laws,” said Brad Nichols, Director of Law Enforcement and Director deputy executive of the humane society, in an emailed statement.

“There is no doubt that this is a tragic event and we are saddened by the loss of animal life.”

The Calgary Humane Society said it would not comment further while other agencies investigate.

CTV News has contacted the CFIA for comment on the letter.

A video published on Reddit showed the tractor-trailer traveling on the exit ramp, flipping onto its side and sliding off the road.

Police said they were investigating the speed of the truck as a possible cause of the crash. The driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Anyone with information or dash camera footage related to this crash is asked to call police at 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers.