An 18-year-old tourist lost his life in a horse-drawn carriage accident during his first visit to the United States, where he was excitedly exploring Central Park with his family.
Romanchi Mahajan had just arrived from India with his parents and younger brother for a three-day trip when the horse unexpectedly spooked, resulting in them being thrown from the carriage, as his aunt, Sovia Thukral, shared with the Post.
“They are heartbroken. Just think about it—your first time in America and this happens. It’s unimaginable,” Thukral expressed.
Shortly after the incident on Wednesday, Mahajan’s father called Thukral in distress, revealing that his son was unresponsive, his voice trembling in panic.
The tragedy unfolded when the cart driver, Ertan Gokdepe, encouraged the family to return to the carriage for pictures as the horses began to move slightly. When Gokdepe attempted to regain control, the horse named Sampson bolted.
Mahajan’s mother, Priya, was the first to fall from the carriage, prompting Mahajan to react. “He saw his mother fall, shouted for her, and before he could stabilize himself to jump, he fell out as well,” Thukral recounted.
As this unfolded, Mahajan’s father tried to secure his younger son by holding him tightly, which added to the chaos.
Thukral mentioned that this tragic event was “a complete mistake.” Mahajan had recently learned he was accepted into one of the most prestigious universities in India, right as they began their trip.
The family regretted not being aware of the regulations that prohibit leaving the carriage unattended for photos. “Had we known about that rule, we wouldn’t have even considered it,” she added.
In response to the incident, Sampson has been retired, and all horse-drawn carriage services in Central Park have been suspended until Tuesday for a “safety shutdown” initiated by the American Transportation Workers Union Local 100. This is to ensure drivers engage in vital safety discussions regarding proper carriage management.
Mahajan’s death has intensified demands from animal rights advocates and some city council members for a complete prohibition on horse-drawn carriages.
