Wild horse stampede disrupts Rome traffic ahead of military parade
Chaos erupted on a busy Roman road after several horses bolted into heavy traffic just before a military parade. The stampede, triggered by loud fireworks, caused damage to vehicles and forced authorities to shut down a major route. The incident unfolded on June 2 along Via Cristoforo Colombo, a key road connecting Rome to Ostia. The horses, being prepared for Rome’s military parade, panicked and broke free. Dramatic video footage later showed the animals galloping wildly through traffic.
Numerous drivers called police as the panicked horses weaved between cars. One vehicle suffered damage in the chaos. A police officer and a cavalry unit member received minor injuries, though no one was seriously hurt.
Authorities temporarily closed the road while officers and handlers worked to round up the escaped animals. The Carabinieri and local police have since opened an investigation into the cause of the stampede. The horses were eventually secured, and the road reopened after delays. The investigation will determine whether safety measures for future parades need review. No further disruptions were reported following the incident.
