King Charles has attended the Royal Windsor Horse Show following the tragic death of a soldier from the King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, who fell from a horse at the equestrian event. The monarch was photographed at the show on Saturday, May 16, wearing a tweed jacket, cream trousers, and tinted sunglasses. He had also attended the event on Friday, May 15.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson confirmed that the King was greatly shocked and saddened upon learning of the soldier's death. The monarch plans to contact the family to offer personal condolences. The soldier fell from the horse at approximately 7pm after exiting the arena and received immediate medical treatment but died at the scene from serious injuries.
The Royal Windsor Horse Show continued as planned, though the display by the King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery was omitted. A statement from the show confirmed that the horse involved in the incident received immediate medical attention and was uninjured.
Police are treating the death as unexplained but not suspicious. Chief Superintendent Michael Loebenberg appealed for information and expressed condolences to the soldier's family and the military community. The Ministry of Defence and the Defence Accident Investigation Branch are assisting with inquiries.
Jo Peck, event director for HPower, expressed sympathies and confirmed the show continued with the published timetable, minus the King's Troop display. An Army spokesperson expressed deep regret and announced the death, noting that the family has been notified.
The Royal Windsor Horse Show, first staged in 1943 to raise funds for the Second World War effort, is the only UK show to host international competitions in show jumping, dressage, driving, and endurance. It takes place annually in the private grounds of Windsor Castle.
