A carriage horse named Bambi spooked and ran loose in Central Park near Bethesda Fountain, causing panic among tourists and locals. This incident marks the third time this year a carriage horse has bolted in the park. Fortunately, no serious injuries occurred; passengers escaped safely, and Bambi was unharmed but is under veterinary evaluation. The carriage driver, a veteran with over 20 years of experience, blamed a loud garbage truck for startling the horse.

The event has reignited debates over the future of horse-drawn carriages in Central Park. Animal rights group NYClass and the Central Park Conservancy support passing Ryders Law, which would phase out carriages over two years, citing safety concerns amid growing park crowds. Meanwhile, carriage drivers argue for clearer regulations to ensure safer coexistence. The city council is still deliberating the bill, with activists urging Speaker Adrienne Adams to stop blocking its progress to prevent potential future tragedies.