Royal Windsor Horse Show tragedy as service person dies after falling from horse

16 May 2026 • 8:06 PM MYT
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A member of the King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery tragically died at the Royal Windsor Horse Show on Friday evening after falling from their horse.

The incident occurred at approximately 7pm as the soldier was leaving the arena following their display.

Despite receiving immediate medical attention at the scene, the service person died due to serious injuries sustained in the fall.

Thames Valley Police confirmed the soldier's next of kin have been notified and are receiving support from authorities.

The prestigious equestrian event, a fixture of the British calendar, continues today albeit without the ceremonial military unit's scheduled performance.

Thames Valley Police has issued an appeal for witnesses or anyone possessing relevant information about the tragic incident to come forward.

Investigators have classified the death as unexplained, though they have emphasised that no suspicious circumstances have been identified at this stage.

Image from: Royal Windsor Horse Show tragedy as service person dies after falling from horse
Royal Windsor Horse Show | Source: GETTY

The force is conducting its inquiry in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Accident Investigation Branch.

Show organisers HPower are also assisting authorities as they work to establish precisely what led to the fatal fall.

Chief Superintendent Michael Loebenberg stated: "We are appealing for anyone with information or material relating to the sad death of a military rider at Royal Windsor Horse Show yesterday to please get in touch."

He added: "Our thoughts are with the soldier's family and the wider community in the military and at the Royal Windsor Horse Show at this extremely difficult time."

The senior officer confirmed that authorities are pooling resources to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Jo Peck, HPower Event Director, said: "Our thoughts and sympathies are with the family of the soldier who sadly died yesterday. The Royal Windsor Horse Show will continue today as per the published timetable, with the omission of The King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery display."

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