A shocking case of animal cruelty unfolded at a barrel racing competition in Las Vegas over the weekend, leaving multiple horses injured and a young competitor in custody.
The Incident at South Point Arena
Police were called shortly after 2 a.m. Saturday to the South Point Arena & Equestrian Center after three horses were found intentionally injured with a sharp object. Investigators determined that the injuries were inflicted deliberately and were likely caused by a knife.
Officials confirmed that the injuries, while not life-threatening, would prevent the horses from competing in upcoming events.
Victims and Damage
Racer Hailey Krahenbuhl revealed that her horse, Sully (also referred to as Saaul Good), was stabbed multiple times and required stitches. Another horse, Foxy, was nearly stabbed but escaped serious injury.
Fellow competitor Arielle Phillips reported that her mare, Detail, was also attacked. She described returning to the barn to find her horse bleeding and loose. Detail was treated on-site and given stitches, with visible injuries to her shoulder and chest.
Suspect and Arrest
Police quickly identified the suspect as a female competitor with access to the barn. The 17-year-old girl was arrested at a local hotel and sent to Clark County Juvenile Hall.
She faces 12 charges of animal cruelty and three counts of felony malicious destruction of property over $5,000.
Eyewitness Accounts and Social Media Statements
Phillips shared on social media that the suspect had been repeatedly attempting to interact with her earlier in the evening. Security footage showed the stabbing occurring at 12:04 a.m., just minutes after Phillips left Detail’s stall. She described the incident as traumatizing for the horses and emotionally devastating for the owners.
“The innocent, sweet horses who only know how to give their all were brutally tortured for no reason,” Phillips wrote. “You don’t mess with my animals, and I will not stop until justice is served.”
Response from Authorities and the NBHA
The National Barrel Horse Association confirmed that several horses were harmed by a competitor at the NBHA Professional’s Choice Vegas Super Show.
“The situation was addressed immediately in coordination with the National Barrel Horse Association, South Point Hotel & Casino Security, Metro Police, and all appropriate parties,” the association said. “The individual involved has been removed and placed in the care of authorities, and there is no ongoing threat of any kind.”
