Central London descended into chaos as five Household Cavalry horses broke free from their riders during an exercise, leaving a trail of destruction and injuries in their wake. The dramatic incident unfolded during the morning exercise routine on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall, with commuters and bystanders witnessing the harrowing scene.
Eyewitnesses reported scenes of panic and confusion as the spooked horses charged through the streets, colliding with vehicles and pedestrians. At least one soldier was injured after a horse smashed into cars outside the Clermont Hotel on Buckingham Palace Road, Victoria. Reports emerged of a soldier falling from his horse and screaming in pain as it collided with a car, leaving him injured on the ground.
Images captured the aftermath of the chaos, with two horses seen galloping through the streets covered in blood. Passersby were shocked to witness the incident unfold, with some members of the public seen comforting one of the injured horses.
Emergency services swiftly responded to the unfolding emergencies, with the London Ambulance Service attending to reports of injuries on Buckingham Palace Road. The area was cordoned off as paramedics treated the injured soldier and assessed the situation.
The Metropolitan Police and City of London Police collaborated with the Army to contain the loose horses, with efforts focused on locating and safely securing the animals. Two horses were successfully contained on the Highway near Limehouse, awaiting transportation to veterinary care.
In a statement, the Met Police confirmed their awareness of the situation, stating, “We are aware of a number of horses that are currently loose in central London and are working with colleagues, including the Army, to locate them.
