GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — (NTV News) “A freak accident,” that’s how officials described a bad spill at Fonner Park that left three horses dead.
According to race track officials, during the eighth and final race of the Sunday afternoon racing event at Fonner Park, a chain reaction happened that led to multiple horses falling to the ground, along with their jockeys.
As the field of eight fillies and mares approached the far turn, horse #3 collided with horse #4, triggering a chain reaction. The #3 horse, ridden by Ricardo Martinez, fell, followed by the #5 horse with jockey John Jude, and the #8 horse with jockey Bryan McNeil.
Ricardo Martinez, who was treated and released, is currently undergoing standard concussion follow-up procedures. Bryan McNeil is scheduled for surgery today to repair a fractured humerus bone and a separated shoulder. John Jude received treatment for a finger fracture and has since been released.
Subsequently, the #5 horse, Spry Charlie, ran riderless in the opposite direction on the racetrack. Outrider Bo Butler intervened and captured Spry Charlie near the first turn as the race concluded.
Later, the #8 horse, JPs Harley Glider, collided with Bo Butler and his horse after the finish line. Both JPs Harley Glider and Bo Butler’s horses were euthanized due to injuries sustained in the collision. Additionally, the #3 horse, Dial Uncle Joey, ridden by Ricardo Martinez, was fatally injured.
Outrider Bo Butler, under observation for a concussion, also suffered a pneumothorax injury and extensive bruising along his left side.
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“It makes me sick to my stomach to see any horse or its rider be involved in such a horrifying tragedy. Today’s accident was a stark reminder of the ever-present hazard of horseracing. The jockeys and outrider were performing their dangerous professions, which the vast majority of the time ends without incident,” said Chris Kotulak, Fonner Park CEO. “I was pleased to see the incredibly quick reaction from all of the first responders. All of my staff, security and the emergency medical personnel did exactly what they have been trained to do.”
