Military Rider Dies Following Fall at Royal Windsor Horse Show

A member of The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, has died after falling from their horse following a display at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

The equestrian community is mourning following tragic news from the Royal Windsor Horse Show, where a service person from The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery died after a fall from their horse on Friday evening.

According to Thames Valley Police, the soldier fell at around 7pm on Friday, 15 May, after exiting the arena following a display. Emergency medical treatment was given immediately, but the rider had sustained serious injuries and sadly died at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported.

Police have described the death as unexplained but not suspicious and are working with the Ministry of Defence, the Defence Accident Investigation Branch, and Royal Windsor Horse Show organisers HPower to understand the circumstances of the incident.

The Royal Windsor Horse Show is continuing as planned, but the remaining displays by The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery have been removed from the timetable. Event director Jo Peck said the show’s thoughts and sympathies are with the soldier’s family.

Buckingham Palace said King Charles was “greatly shocked and saddened” to learn of the soldier’s death and would be in touch with the family to share his personal condolences.

Royal Windsor Horse Show is one of the United Kingdom’s most historic equestrian events. First staged in 1943, it has grown into a major international show featuring disciplines including show jumping, dressage, driving, and endurance.

For many in the horse world, the tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder of the courage, discipline, and deep trust shared between horses and the people who work with them — especially those serving in ceremonial mounted units.

Thames Valley Police are asking anyone with information, images, or video related to the incident to come forward, quoting reference number 521 of 16 May.

HL Arena extends its deepest condolences to the soldier’s family, friends, fellow service members, The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, and everyone affected at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.