Five horses from the Household Cavalry caused disruption in central London after being startled by falling concrete, leading to a frantic chase and several injuries.
On April 25, 2024, in central London, five horses from the Household Cavalry caused significant disruption and damage after being spooked by falling concrete during an exercise session near Buckingham Palace Road. The horses, each weighing about a tonne, bolted, throwing their riders off and running through busy streets during the morning rush hour. They collided with vehicles and caused injuries to soldiers and civilians. The sequence of events triggered a chaotic chase across the city, continuing for about five miles.
The pursuit involved city police using motorbikes to guide the animals safely into a horse box in Limehouse, East London. Two of the horses, Vida and Quaker, suffered severe injuries and required medical attention, with Vida undergoing surgery at an equine hospital in Kent.
Five people were injured during the episode, though no serious harm was reported among the military personnel or the public. The Defence Procurement Minister, James Cartlidge, highlighted the horses’ significant ceremonial and operational roles in the armed forces. An investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances and causes of this incident. All animals have been secured and are receiving necessary medical care.
