Unauthorized Fireworks Cause Chaos at Republic Day Parade Rehearsal in Rome

Unauthorized fireworks in Rome caused a chaotic scene, leading to a mass stampede of horses. The incident occurred during a late-night rehearsal for Italy’s Republic Day parade, resulting in injuries to multiple riders and horses.

The event happened late Friday near the Baths of Caracalla. Mounted units of Italy’s armed forces and law enforcement were practicing for the national celebration on June 2, according to Reuters.

Approximately 35 horses bolted through the city streets following unexpected fireworks. Video showed many of them galloping along Via Cristoforo Colombo, while drivers captured the scene.

A search and recovery operation for the horses continued until the following dawn. The last of the animals was found about nine miles away from the initial location.

A runaway horse bolts down a road during a late-night ceremonial rehearsal in Rome around May 29, 2026. (Lucio Virzi Fotografo/REUTERS)

Reuters reported that the sudden bangs began just before 11:30 p.m., frightening the ceremonial horses. They were accompanied by the Army, Carabinieri, and state police. Some riders were mounted, while others led horses by hand when the animals panicked and broke free.

During the chaos, a 22-year-old soldier suffered broken ribs and a punctured lung. Authorities said his injuries were not life-threatening. At least 15 horses were injured, but none required euthanasia.

Italian news agency ANSA reported injuries to three soldiers from the Montebello Lancers and a 29-year-old policewoman. Emergency crews and police gathered near a road as the panicked horses fled on May 29, 2026.

Officials are investigating how the unauthorized fireworks started near the rehearsal site. The Rome Local Police Command involved four traffic police officers stationed near the explosion location.

ANSA noted that one officer allegedly lit a firework battery about 200 yards from the horses. He was a 50-year-old who recently joined the force after an exam.

Video and witnesses suggested the fireworks ignited as the horses escaped, according to the report.

The Rome police commander, Mario De Sclavis, told Corriere della Sera that the event damaged the Corps and its officers’ reputation. He promised necessary actions to hold those accountable, cited by ANSA.

De Sclavis remarked, Last night’s events hit us like a tsunami.

Bonny Chu is a Breaking and Trending News Writer for Fox News Digital.