Carriage Horse's Sudden Death Renews NYC Debate

A 15-year-old carriage horse named Lady collapsed and died on West 51st Street and 11th Avenue in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen, after being in the city for less than two months and passing a recent veterinary exam. Witnesses described Lady’s death as sudden and distressing, with bystanders and carriage drivers unable to revive her. The incident has reignited debate over the horse-drawn carriage industry, drawing parallels to the 2022 Ryder case. Animal rights groups like NYCLASS are calling for Ryder’s Law, which would replace horse-drawn carriages with electric ones, citing repeated animal suffering. Industry supporters emphasize the tradition’s historical and economic value, while union leaders back reforms but not a ban. The NYPD is investigating, with no arrests made, and critics argue current city regulations do not sufficiently protect horses.