A soldier from the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery has died after falling from a horse following a display at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.
The incident happened at around 7pm on Friday evening as the rider was leaving the arena after taking part in the ceremonial display. Emergency treatment was provided immediately at the scene, but the soldier suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
Thames Valley Police said the death is currently being treated as “unexplained but non-suspicious”. Officers have appealed for witnesses or anyone with video footage or information relating to the incident to come forward.
In a statement issued through Buckingham Palace, King Charles III said he was “greatly shocked and saddened” by the soldier’s death. The Palace added that the King would contact the family privately to express his personal condolences.
The four-day Royal Windsor Horse Show, one of the country’s most prestigious equestrian events, continued on Saturday, although the scheduled display by the King’s Troop was cancelled as a mark of respect.
Chief Superintendent Michael Loebenberg described the incident as a “sad death” and said police were supporting the soldier’s family as well as the wider military community and those connected to the show.
The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery is best known for its state ceremonial duties, including firing royal salutes in London on major national occasions. The mounted unit regularly appears at royal events and public displays across the country.
The identity of the soldier has not yet been released publicly.
