SAN DIEGO (KGTV) – Two horses died Thursday after a collision during training at the Del Mar Racetrack, officials confirmed.
The deadly accident involving 3-year-old horse Carson Valley and 2-year-old horse Charge A Bunch happened during early morning workouts.
Charge A Bunch threw his rider near the six furlong pole, turned sharply, and collided with Carson Valley, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club officials said in a statement.
Jockey Assael Espinoza, who was riding Carson Valley, suffered an injury to his back and was hospitalized.
The jockey riding Charge A Bunch, Geovanni Franco, was not hurt, DMTC said.
Track emergency personnel and veterinarians were able to respond immediately, according to officials.
“This was a very unfortunate accident and it is a shock to everyone in the barn. We work every day to take the best care of our horses but sometimes freak accidents occur that are beyond anyone’s ability to control. This is one of those times and we’re deeply saddened for the horses and everyone involved," said Carson Valley's trainer Bob Baffert.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
