PETA Pig Truck To Play Slaughterhouse Sounds Outside Hartford Barbecue Restaurant

HARTFORD, CT — People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) plans to bring its traveling “Hell on Wheels” exhibit to Hartford on Friday, March 13, as part of a national campaign urging diners to stop eating pork and consider vegan alternatives.

The exhibit—a truck designed to resemble a livestock transport vehicle—will be parked at noon outside Bear's Smokehouse Barbecue, which is not affiliated with the effort.

The truck plays recordings PETA says are of pigs “on their way to slaughter,” including what the group describes as the animals’ panicked screams.

A looping audio message also urges listeners to adopt a vegan diet.

PETA says the exhibit aims to challenge what it calls misleading portrayals of pigs in the meat industry.

“Every piece of pepperoni or ham sandwich was once a thinking, feeling being who suffered a terrifying trip to a violent death,” said Tracy Reiman, president of PETA. “PETA’s ‘Hell on Wheels’ truck is a reminder to everyone that the meat industry is a killer, and cruelty to animals isn’t just hitting a dog—it’s failing to choose vegan meals.”

The organization said it has contacted restaurants along the truck’s route, including Bear’s Smokehouse Barbecue, offering assistance with adding vegan menu items.

PETA said the outreach includes tips, recipes, and suggestions for plant-based dishes.

The Hartford stop is part of a broader tour that PETA says will pass through towns across the country.

The group hopes the truck’s sights and sounds will prompt conversations among diners and encourage people to consider vegan meals.