Fireworks set off without permission in Rome reportedly caused a stampede of horses during a rehearsal for Italy’s Republic Day parade, resulting in injuries to riders and animals. The chaotic event happened late Friday near the ancient Baths of Caracalla, where mounted units from Italy’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies were practicing for the June 2 national celebration.
About 35 horses ran through the city streets after the unexpected fireworks. Video footage shows numerous horses galloping along Via Cristoforo Colombo as drivers recorded the event. Efforts to search and recover the horses continued until dawn the following day, with the last horse found roughly nine miles from the initial scene.
A runaway horse bolts down a road during a late-night ceremonial rehearsal in Rome around May 29, 2026. (Lucio Virzi Fotografo/REUTERS)
The fireworks began shortly before 11:30 p.m., causing panic among the ceremonial horses. Many horses were escorted by Italy’s Army, the Carabinieri paramilitary police, and state police. Some riders were mounted, while others led the horses by hand. Reports indicate a 22-year-old soldier suffered broken ribs and a punctured lung, though his injuries are not life-threatening. At least 15 horses were injured, none fatally.
Italian news outlet ANSA reported three Montebello Lancers soldiers and a 29-year-old policewoman were injured. Authorities are investigating how the unauthorized fireworks were set off near the rehearsal site. Four traffic police officers were reportedly present during the incident, and one officer allegedly lit a battery of fireworks near the horses. This officer, identified as a 50-year-old, joined the force after passing a recent exam.
Police and emergency crews station near a road as panicked horses flee down a Rome road on May 29, 2026. (Lucio Virzi Fotografo/via REUTERS)
Rome police commander Mario De Sclavis expressed concern over the situation, stating it “discredits the image of the Corps and its officers.” He assured necessary measures would be taken to hold the responsible parties accountable. “Last night’s events hit us like a tsunami,” he said.
Bonny Chu is a Breaking and Trending News Writer for Fox News Digital.