Fireworks set off without authorization in Rome reportedly triggered a mass stampede of frightened horses during a late-night rehearsal for Italy’s annual Republic Day parade, injuring multiple riders and animals.The incident occurred late Friday near the ancient Baths of Caracalla as mounted units from Italy's armed forces and law enforcement agencies were practicing for the June 2 national celebration, Reuters reported.Roughly 35 horses bolted through city streets following the unexpected fireworks, the outlet said.Video captured the chaotic scene, showing numerous horses galloping along Via Cristoforo Colombo as drivers recorded the scene.The search and recovery effort reportedly continued until dawn the next day, with the last horse recovered roughly nine miles from the scene.NEW YORK OFFICIALS CANCEL HORSE RACING AT RACETRACK OVER 'UNACCEPTABLE NOISE LEVELS' FROM NEARBY CASINOA runaway horse bolts down a road during a late-night ceremonial rehearsal in Rome around May 29, 2026.
(Lucio Virzi Fotografo/REUTERS)According to Reuters, the sudden bangs began shortly before 11:30 p.m.and triggered panic among the ceremonial horses, many of which were being escorted by Italy’s Army, Carabinieri paramilitary police, and state police.Some riders were mounted, while others were leading horses by hand when the startled animals broke free, the outlet said.KENTUCKY DERBY HORSE SCRATCHED AFTER THROWING JOCKEY WHILE GETTING LOADED INTO STARTING GATEDuring the chaos, a 22-year-old soldier reportedly suffered broken ribs and a punctured lung, though officials said his injuries were not life-threatening.
At least 15 horses were also injured, though none required euthanasia, according to reports.Italian outlet ANSA said the stampede injured three young soldiers from the Montebello Lancers and a 29-year-old policewoman.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)ILLEGAL STREET TAKE...