Unauthorized fireworks set off in Rome during a late-night rehearsal for Italy’s Republic Day parade caused panic among horses, resulting in injuries to both riders and animals. This incident happened late Friday near the historic Baths of Caracalla, where mounted military and police units were preparing for the national celebrations scheduled for June 2.
Approximately 35 horses bolted through the streets after the unexpected explosions. Video footage captured the chaos, showing many horses racing down Via Cristoforo Colombo as startled drivers recorded the scene.
Search and recovery operations continued into the early hours of the following morning, ending with the last horse reportedly found about nine miles from where the event took place.
Just before 11:30 p.m., the sudden noise began, leading to a frenzied escape from the ceremonial horses, many of which were being led by members of the Italian Army, Carabinieri police, and state police.
Some jockeys were on horseback, while others were assisting the horses directly when the startled animals bolted.
In the resulting chaos, a 22-year-old soldier sustained broken ribs and a punctured lung, though his injuries were reported as non-life-threatening. At least 15 horses were injured, but fortunately, none required euthanasia.
Italian news outlet ANSA reported that the chaos also left several individuals injured, including three young soldiers from the Montebello Lancers and a female police officer.
Authorities are now looking into how the unauthorized fireworks were ignited near the rehearsal area. According to the Rome Regional Police Command, four traffic police officers were present at the scene during the explosions. Reports indicate that one officer, a 50-year-old who recently joined the force, ignited a firework approximately 200 meters away from the horses.
Witness accounts and video evidence suggest that the explosion occurred simultaneously with the horses’ escape.
Rome police commander Mario de Sclavis expressed that the incident has marred the image of the police, stating that they would take necessary actions to hold those responsible accountable for the events. “Last night’s events hit us like a tsunami,” he remarked.
