OWEGO, N.Y. (WHCU) – Authorities in Tioga County are thankful an Independence Day tragedy was avoided.

Owego Police responded to State Route 17 around 9:00 p.m. on July 4th for an animal complaint.  A passing motorist struck a bald eagle near the Court Street Bridge, and it became stuck in the vehicle’s grill.

Owego PD says the patriotic raptor was able to free itself and fly away, appearing uninjured.