The cause of death for Lady, a 15-year-old carriage horse who collapsed and died in Hell’s Kitchen, was determined to be an aortic rupture likely caused by a small tumor in her adrenal gland, according to the Transit Workers Union Local 100. A necropsy performed at Cornell University found no signs of neglect or abuse, and Lady was described as being in good condition. Despite a recent clean bill of health, the sudden medical episode was deemed unavoidable and not linked to mistreatment.

Lady’s death has reignited calls for Ryder’s Law, legislation aimed at gradually phasing out horse-drawn carriages in New York City following similar incidents, including the collapse and later death of another horse, Ryder. Advocates argue that the city’s carriage horses suffer in harsh conditions, while supporters of the industry, including carriage drivers, deny any abuse, emphasizing their care and compassion for the animals. The debate continues amid public rallies and political pressure to address the welfare of carriage horses in the city.