Traffic Policeman's Fireworks Cause Horse Stampede in Rome, Injuring Riders
In Rome, a traffic policeman inadvertently caused chaos during a rehearsal for Italy's Republic Day parade by setting off fireworks without permission. The incident occurred late at night, startling dozens of ceremonial horses and causing them to stampede through the streets. The fireworks were ignited near the Baths of Caracalla, where mounted units from the army, Carabinieri paramilitary force, and police were practicing for the upcoming parade. The unexpected noise led to panic among the horses, some of which had riders while others were being led by hand. Approximately 35 horses fled onto the busy Via Cristoforo Colombo, with some drivers capturing the scene on video. The last horse was recovered at dawn, about nine miles from the initial location. Several riders were thrown from their horses, with a 22-year-old soldier suffering broken ribs and a punctured lung, though not in life-threatening condition. Around 15 horses were injured, but none were euthanized. 
