Central Park stray voltage investigated after fatal horse-drawn carriage crash

On June 17, 2026, 18‑year‑old tourist Romanch Mahajan was killed when a horse‑drawn carriage in New York City's Central Park bolted and threw him from the vehicle. The Transport Workers Union and the carriage industry union have raised the possibility that stray voltage in the park may have startled the horse.

Con Edison crews measured very low levels of stray voltage on July 16 and July 23, but the utility said the source was not its equipment and referred the matter to the Parks Department. The investigation continues as city officials block off the Cherry Hill area and examine underground electrical infrastructure.

The incident has intensified debate over the future of horse‑drawn carriage rides. A city‑council hearing considered legislation, dubbed “Romanch’s Law,” that would phase out the practice by June 2028. Advocates for the ban cite the fatal crash and other recent incidents, while opponents argue for safety improvements. Mahajan’s family plans a wrongful‑death lawsuit against the city.