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Central Park horse-drawn carriage rides paused after 18-year-old tourist killed
ABC7 New York • • general
Key Points:
- The union representing Central Park horse carriage drivers has suspended all rides following the death of 18-year-old tourist Romanch Mahajan, who was thrown from a runaway carriage and died from blunt force trauma.
- The incident has intensified calls from the Central Park Conservancy, animal rights groups, and city officials to ban horse-drawn carriages in the park, with a City Council hearing on related legislation planned next month.
- Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed support for ending the horse carriage industry, pledging to work on a transition that protects workers while discontinuing the rides.
- Some horse owners and the Transport Workers Union advocate for improved safety regulations, including installing hitching posts throughout the park to better secure horses and prevent accidents.
- The tragic event follows a recent horse death in the park and has deeply affected the community, highlighting ongoing concerns about the safety and welfare of horses and passengers.
