A horseback riding excursion intended for beginners turned tragic in Najac, Aveyron. A 12-year-old girl died after a fall on August 7th during an outing organized by the service provider for the VVF (Vacances Villages Familles) equestrian center in the town. Two other children, aged 7 and 10, also fell and sustained minor injuries. A preliminary investigation has been opened against persons unknown for manslaughter and involuntary injury. Meanwhile, the Aveyron prefecture ordered the temporary closure of the equestrian center after identifying several compliance issues with its facilities.
Three horses bolt during a beginner's ride
The accident occurred during a horseback riding outing for beginners. According to initial reports from authorities, three horses bolted, causing their riders to fall. Among them was a 12-year-old girl. Seriously injured, she was taken to the hospital but did not survive. Her death was confirmed on August 7. Two other children participating in the outing, aged 7 and 10, sustained minor injuries. The circumstances that caused the horses to bolt are still under investigation.
An investigation into manslaughter and unintentional injury
The Rodez public prosecutor's office has opened a preliminary investigation against persons unknown for manslaughter and involuntary injury. The investigation must now establish precisely how the accident unfolded, as well as examine the conditions under which the ride was organized. Investigators will notably have to determine the circumstances that led the three horses to bolt and verify the safety measures in place for this outing intended for beginners. The deputy prosecutor of Rodez, Chérif Chabbi, confirmed that the investigation is continuing in order to determine the exact circumstances of the tragedy and the conditions under which the ride was organized.
The equestrian center was closed by the prefecture.
Ten days after the accident, the Aveyron prefecture issued an order for the temporary closure of the equestrian center. The order, dated August 17, stipulates a closure for an indefinite period. This decision is not based solely on the accident itself. An inspection carried out by an agent of the Departmental Service for Youth, Engagement, and Sports revealed that certain equipment was not up to standard. The prefecture believes, in particular, that the center's riding arena—the enclosed outdoor space where riders practice—presents risks to the health and safety of those using the facilities.
Quarry equipment deemed non-compliant
Among the issues raised were the equipment installed around the arena, particularly the kickboards. These low barriers placed along the track should normally be continuous, smooth, and designed to minimize the risk of injury in case of a fall or contact with the arena boundaries. They also help guide the horse and prevent a rider from directly hitting a fence or obstacle located at the edge of the track. The facilities must now be brought into compliance before normal activity can resume.
No reopening until further inspection
The center's closure is therefore not subject to a specific end date. The facility will only be able to reopen after the necessary work has been completed and a further inspection by the relevant authorities. This administrative procedure is separate from the judicial inquiry opened following the teenager's death. The inquiry will have to determine whether any errors, negligence, or shortcomings contributed to the accident and, if so, establish any potential liability. In Najac, the death of this 12-year-old girl has deeply affected the community. The municipality has expressed its support and condolences to the victim's family, while the investigation continues to understand precisely how this horseback riding outing intended for beginners could have turned into such a tragedy.
