Beach Horseback Riding Excursion Takes a Dangerous Turn on Palma Sola Causeway

A beach tour excursion took a frightening turn on Saturday morning when several riders were thrown from their horses after the animals became spooked near the Palma Sola Causeway.

Shortly after 11 a.m., officers responded to reports of multiple horses running loose eastbound on the causeway. The seven horses, owned by Carousel Sea Horses, had just begun a beach ride near the 8400 block of Manatee Avenue West when the guide’s horse was startled. The sudden commotion frightened the other horses, leading to a chaotic scene where all the riders were either thrown off or forced to jump from their horses.

Emergency Medical Services arrived on the scene and transported two riders to a local hospital for evaluation of possible neck and arm injuries. The extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.

Shortly after the incident, the runaway horses were corralled behind a residence in the 7800 block of Manatee Avenue West. They were safely secured and loaded into the Carousel Sea Horses company trailer.

The Bradenton Police Department provided traffic control to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians during the incident. Officers also documented the event, which was not classified as a criminal investigation.