Several animals and riders were injured after unauthorized fireworks triggered a horse stampede.
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The incident took place on Friday night in Rome, Italy, during a late-night rehearsal for the country's annual Republic Day parade.
What Happened During the Stampede?
As reported by Fox News, mounted units from Italy's armed forces and police were practicing for the parade near the ancient Baths of Caracalla ahead of the event, scheduled to take place tomorrow.
The fireworks began going off just before 11:30 p.m. local time during the rehearsal. The unexpected booms startled the horses, many of which were being escorted by the Italian army, Carabinieri paramilitary police, and state police.
It is estimated that around 35 horses broke away and ran through the streets immediately following the fireworks. Video taken by drivers showed the four-legged animals galloping along Via Cristoforo Colombo. Some riders were mounted on the panicked animals. Others were leading the horses by hand when the animals became startled.
Was Anyone Hurt by the Stampeding Horses?
Local outlets reported that a 22-year-old soldier suffered from broken ribs and a punctured lung. Their injuries are not life-threatening. Three additional soldiers from the Montebello Lancers and a 29-year-old policewoman were also hurt.
Additionally, at least 15 horses were also injured. None required euthanasia.
An investigation into how the fireworks were set off during the rehearsal is now underway.
According to the Rome Local Police Command, four traffic police officers were reported near the fireworks when they went off.
One of the officers allegedly set off several fireworks about 200 yards away from the horses. He was identified as a 50-year-old who just joined the force after passing the most recent exam.
Rome police commander Mario De Sclavis told the newspaper Corriere della Sera that the incident "discredits the image of the Corps and its officers." He added that the agency will take the "necessary measures" to hold those responsible for the incident accountable.
