- An 18-year-old tourist from India named Romanch Mahajan died after a horse-drawn carriage overturned in Central Park.
- The incident occurred when the carriage operator stepped away, causing the horse to bolt in fright.
- Witnesses rushed to assist as Mahajan was thrown from the carriage and later succumbed to his injuries.
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK — Weeks after a Syracuse father was sentenced for killing his son and girlfriend with a shotgun, another heartbreaking tragedy has shaken New York. This time, an 18-year-old tourist visiting from India died after a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park turned deadly.
Romanch Mahajan was killed Wednesday afternoon after the carriage he was riding in overturned following a runaway horse incident.
Horse Became Startled
According to police and sources familiar with the investigation, the incident happened near 71st Street and Centre Drive at approximately 2:45 p.m.
Authorities said the carriage operator stepped away from his position to take a photograph of the passengers.
At some point, the horse, identified as a 7-year-old named Sampson, became frightened and suddenly bolted.
Witnesses described seeing the carriage speeding uncontrollably through the park.
"The horse got scared and ran super fast," witness Tatianna Bresler told local media.
Teen Thrown From Carriage
Mahajan had been riding in the carriage with two other passengers, all of whom were visiting New York from India.
Investigators said Mahajan was thrown from the moving carriage and struck his head.
The runaway carriage then collided with the wheel of another horse-drawn carriage before overturning.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene and transported Mahajan to Weill Cornell Medical Center.
He later died from his injuries.
The other two passengers were evaluated but did not report any injuries.
Witnesses Rushed to Help
Video captured the carriage operator running after the fleeing horse as bystanders called 911.
Several witnesses attempted to help those involved while emergency crews worked to secure the scene.
Pedicab driver Helen David said the victim's family appeared distraught as paramedics placed Mahajan onto a stretcher.
"I saw everybody trying to assist the person," David said.
Horse Uninjured
Police said Sampson was eventually brought under control farther south in Central Park near Tavern on the Green.
Authorities reported that the horse did not suffer injuries.
The operator has reportedly been suspended indefinitely pending the outcome of the investigation.
Union officials stated that carriage drivers are not supposed to leave their horses unattended.
Calls for Ban Renewed
The tragedy reignited debate surrounding New York City's horse-drawn carriage industry.
Animal welfare advocates and several city officials renewed support for Ryder's Law, proposed legislation that would phase out horse-drawn carriages in the city.
Supporters of the measure argue that frightened horses can become impossible to control in crowded public spaces.
Others have pointed to previous incidents involving carriage horses in Central Park.
The New York City Council has not yet advanced the proposal.
Investigation Continues
Police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have not announced whether any charges will be filed.
For Mahajan's family, what was meant to be a memorable visit to one of New York City's most famous attractions ended in unimaginable loss.
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