A teenage girl has been arrested after three horses were allegedly stabbed ahead of a major barrel racing competition in Las Vegas, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred during the early hours of May 30 at a barn near South Las Vegas Boulevard, where competitors were preparing for the 2026 NBHA Professional’s Choice Las Vegas Super Show.
Investigation Uncovers Suspect
Police say officers responded to reports of an injured horse shortly after 2 a.m. Upon arrival, investigators discovered that three horses had suffered intentional injuries caused by a sharp object.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Animal Cruelty Section launched an investigation and quickly identified a teenage girl as a potential suspect.
Authorities believe the suspect had access to the barn and may have used a knife to injure the animals.
Horses Expected to Survive
Fortunately, officials said the injuries were not considered life-threatening. However, all three horses have been withdrawn from competition and will be unable to participate in the prestigious event.
The horses are currently receiving veterinary care as owners and competitors await further updates on their recovery.
Arrest Made at Nearby Hotel
Detectives later located the suspect at a nearby hotel and took her into custody without incident.
She was transported to Clark County Juvenile Hall, where she was booked on 12 counts of willful or malicious killing, maiming, or torturing an animal, along with three counts of felony malicious destruction of private property valued at more than $5,000.
Because the suspect is a minor, authorities have not publicly released her identity.
Competitors Left Shocked
The incident has rattled participants attending the event. One 17-year-old competitor told local media she had spoken with the suspect several times before the alleged attack and described the situation as frightening.
Many within the equestrian community have expressed concern over the safety of animals at competitive events, especially given the targeted nature of the injuries.
Venue Responds
South Point Hotel Casino & Spa, where the event is being held, released a statement emphasizing that the safety and wellbeing of guests, competitors, and horses remain its top priority.
The venue confirmed that all three horses survived and said it is fully cooperating with investigators as the case moves forward.
Animal Cruelty Charges Draw Attention
The case has attracted significant attention due to the severity of the allegations and the number of charges involved.
Animal welfare advocates note that intentional harm to competition animals can carry serious legal consequences, particularly when multiple animals are involved.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
