A teenage girl has been arrested and charged with allegedly stabbing three horses during a major racing event at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa in Las Vegas, police said Saturday. The animals suffered injuries that, while not life-threatening, will prevent them from competing.
Background
The incident occurred early Saturday morning inside a barn at the South Point's equestrian center, which was hosting the 2026 NBHA Professional's Choice Vegas Super Show over the weekend. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police officers were called to the barn at around 2 a.m. after learning that three horses had been intentionally injured with a sharp object.
According to event organizers speaking to CBS affiliate KLAS, the stabbings occurred after officials announced Friday that someone scheduled to compete in the races had been removed from the competition due to an apparent horse mistreatment issue. The removal came before the alleged attacks on the animals at the venue.
"The safety and well-being of all guests, participants, and equine athletes on property is our highest priority," the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa said in a statement. "We want to thank the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the NBHA for their immediate response to this incident."
The Investigation
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police have not identified the teen by name or confirmed her connection to the racing event, though investigators said she had access to the barn where the stabbings took place. Officers believe the suspect may have used a knife to inflict multiple injuries on the horses.
The teen was arrested at a hotel near the barn and booked at Clark County Juvenile Hall on 12 counts of animal cruelty, including intentionally aiming or torturing a horse, as well as three counts of malicious destruction of property.
Despite their injuries, police said all three horses are expected to recover. However, their wounds will sideline them from competition.
Key Takeaways
- Three horses were allegedly stabbed with a sharp object inside a barn at the South Point Hotel's equestrian center in Las Vegas
- The incident happened during the 2026 NBHA Professional's Choice Vegas Super Show racing event
- A teenage girl was arrested and booked on 12 counts of animal cruelty and 3 counts of malicious destruction of property
- Police believe the teen had access to the barn where the horses were kept
- All three horses are expected to recover but will be unable to compete due to their injuries
What's Next
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police are continuing their investigation into the incident. Authorities have asked anyone with information about the stabbings to contact the Las Vegas police department or report tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
"Any additional questions regarding this incident should be directed to law enforcement authorities," the South Point Hotel said in its statement.