In a chaotic scene that unfolded on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, five military horses broke free during a rehearsal for The King’s Birthday Parade and galloped through the bustling streets of central London. The incident, which caused widespread disruption and injuries, began when building materials were inadvertently dropped near the horses, causing them to panic and bolt.
As the spooked animals charged through the streets, they collided with a double-decker bus, a taxi, and other vehicles, sending debris flying and causing alarm among pedestrians and motorists. Four soldiers from the Household Cavalry, which patrols the grounds outside Buckingham Palace, were thrown from their saddles, while a civilian riding a bicycle was also injured.
Paramedics from the London Ambulance Service rushed to the scene and treated several injured individuals, including the soldiers and the cyclist. Fortunately, none of the injuries were deemed life-threatening.
The escaped horses, including one that appeared to be covered in blood, were eventually rounded up by authorities. They were then transported to a veterinary facility for examination and treatment. The incident occurred on Buckingham Palace Road, Belgrave Square, and the area between Chancery Lane and Fleet Street.
According to officials, the unit involved in the incident consisted of seven horses and six soldiers. They were scheduled to participate in a mandatory inspection in Hyde Park on Thursday ahead of The King’s Birthday Parade, an annual event that attracts thousands of spectators.
Despite the chaos caused by the loose horses, the Trooping the Colour parade is still scheduled to take place in Hyde Park on Thursday. However, the horses will undergo a thorough inspection to ensure their safety and well-being before participating in the event.
