A recent FOIA request to the California Horse Racing Board revealed troubling details about horse fatalities in the state last year. Among the cases, Fearless King, a two-year-old, was found dead in his stall, suffering from severe medical issues including a volvulus and pneumonia, alongside skin abrasions and gastric ulcers.

Another horse, Zees Empire, a seven-year-old, died after a catastrophic collision that resulted in a severe humeral fracture and extensive hemorrhage. Additionally, the necropsy noted the presence of live worms in his stomach, indicating poor health conditions.

Lastly, Jayarebe, a three-year-old, collapsed and died suddenly, with undetermined causes but a history of osteochondral disease and stomach ulcers. These cases highlight significant health concerns within the horse racing industry in California.