A soldier who died after falling from her horse at an event attended by the King has been named as Ciara Sullivan of the Royal Horse Artillery. The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in Windsor, Berkshire.
Details of the Incident
Ciara Sullivan fell from her horse at around 7pm as she was exiting the arena. Despite immediate medical treatment from paramedics, she was declared dead at the scene. Thames Valley Police confirmed that she suffered serious injuries from the fall.
Royal Family Response
The Royal Family issued a statement, with King Charles expressing that he was “greatly shocked” and “saddened” by the tragedy. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said, “While His Majesty and other Members of The Royal Family were present at the arena at the time the incident took place, they were not made aware of the severity of the situation until later. The King was greatly shocked and saddened to have learned subsequently of the Troop member’s death, and will be in touch with the family to share his personal condolences. The thoughts and most heartfelt sympathies of the whole Royal Family are with the victim’s loved ones and military colleagues at this time of grief.”
Tributes
Ciara's father, Pat Sullivan, shared a photo of her on social media with the message: “The honour. The service. They will never be forgotten.” Friends and colleagues have paid tribute, highlighting her skill and dedication. Eleanor Lucas Bell wrote on Facebook: “Today our sport lost one of its very best. She was the very pinnacle of equestrianism — someone I looked up to enormously as both a rider and a role model. ... Her loss will be felt deeply by so many, which says everything about the beautiful soul she was. Stand down Gunner.” Another friend, Josephine Coates, added: “Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I’ll miss you until we meet again. Goodbye my friend, rest easy.”
