Florida Man Strikes Police Horse, Sparks Wild Chase in Tampa

In a shocking incident that unfolded in Tampa's Ybor City on March 11, 2025, a man identified as Michael Rodriguez engaged in a bizarre confrontation with law enforcement, striking a police horse and triggering a chaotic chase through crowded streets.

According to Tampa Police Department reports, the incident began when Rodriguez approached a mounted officer and unexpectedly struck the horse, causing the animal to rear and panic. The sudden attack led to a wild chase as Rodriguez attempted to flee the scene on foot, weaving through the crowded streets of Ybor City.

Body camera footage released by the Tampa Police Department captured the entire ordeal, showing the officer's quick response to regain control of the startled horse while other officers pursued Rodriguez. The chase, which lasted several minutes, ended with Rodriguez's apprehension near a popular restaurant on 7th Avenue.

Rodriguez has been charged with multiple offenses, including assault on a law enforcement officer and animal cruelty. The police horse, named Thunder, was reported to be unharmed but visibly shaken by the incident. Animal welfare organizations have condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for stricter penalties for such acts of cruelty.

The incident has sparked a broader discussion on public safety in Tampa, with local residents expressing concerns about the unpredictability of such events in busy entertainment districts. The Tampa Police Department has reassured the community that they are committed to ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors, promising increased patrols in high-traffic areas.

• Michael Rodriguez
• Tampa
• Thunder
• Ybor City

Detailed

BODY CAM: Florida man strikes police horse, leads to wild horseback chase in crowd

4 weeks ago

- cbs12