New York holiday turns tragic as Pathankot teen dies after horse-drawn carriage overturns at Central Park

An 18-year-old student from Punjab’s Pathankot district has died in the United States after suffering critical injuries in an accident involving a horse-drawn carriage at New York’s Central Park, family sources and local media reports said.

The victim, Romanch Mahajan, had travelled to New York with his family earlier this month for a holiday. The trip was expected to include sightseeing in the city before the family visited relatives living in the United States. However, the vacation took a tragic turn when an outing at Central Park ended in a serious accident.

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According to information available from local authorities, the incident occurred when a horse pulling a tourist carriage suddenly became agitated during a ride through the park. The animal reportedly bolted, causing the carriage to lose control before colliding with an object. The impact caused the carriage to overturn, throwing passengers from the vehicle.

Romanch, who was travelling with his parents and younger brother, sustained severe head injuries in the accident. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he remained under medical care for two days. Despite treatment, doctors were unable to save him and he later succumbed to his injuries.

People close to the family said the teenager’s mother also suffered injuries in the incident but was discharged after receiving treatment. Relatives described Romanch as an academically bright student who had been planning to pursue higher education.

The Mahajan family is known in Pathankot’s business circles and is associated with travel, hospitality and jewellery ventures. News of the teenager’s death spread quickly through the city, prompting an outpouring of grief from residents and members of the business community.

Reports from New York said investigators were examining the circumstances that led to the accident. Initial reports pointed to possible safety lapses during the carriage ride. Following the incident, the driver involved was reportedly removed from active duty pending further review.

The accident has once again drawn attention to the long-running debate over horse-drawn carriage services in New York City. Advocacy groups have renewed concerns about passenger safety and animal welfare, arguing that the traditional tourist attraction requires stricter oversight.

Several organisations have called for reforms to the industry, while supporters of the carriage system maintain that it remains an important part of the city’s tourism heritage. The latest tragedy has intensified calls for a fresh review of existing regulations.

Romanch had recently completed his Class 12 studies with strong academic results and was said to be exploring opportunities for higher education. His untimely death has left family members, friends and well-wishers in deep shock.

The family is currently making arrangements following the tragedy as condolences continue to pour in from both India and members of the Indian community in the United States.