A horse died in the early morning of Sunday during the pilgrimage to the Lo Vásquez sanctuary in Curacaví. The animal collapsed suddenly on Avenida O’Higgins in the Valle Verde sector. Authorities are investigating the causes, while veterinary experts regret the incident and reiterate calls to avoid using horses in such events.
The incident took place in the early morning of Sunday, December 7, 2025, when a horse participating in the traditional pilgrimage to Lo Vásquez collapsed abruptly on the public road. Neighbors traveling along Avenida O’Higgins, at the height of the Valle Verde sector in the Curacaví commune, alerted authorities to the fallen animal.
Carabineros arrived promptly at the scene and confirmed the equine's death. Investigations began immediately to clarify the reasons for the demise, though the exact causes have not yet been determined. The physical strain from the long journey is not ruled out as a contributing factor, given the demands of the route.
Prior to the event, the Colegio Médico Veterinario de Chile had issued clear recommendations to prevent such situations. The guild urged pilgrims not to bring horses, and if they did, to ensure proper hydration, balanced feeding, well-maintained horseshoes, and rest breaks. Alicia Plaza, director of the National Commission for Animal Welfare at the Colegio, discussed the issue with Radio ADN. “Due to cultural reasons, some people still attend with equines, and that's why we made those recommendations,” she explained. She added: “We regret the animal's death; it's something that shouldn't happen.”
This event highlights concerns for animal welfare in popular traditions, where the use of horses persists despite the evident risks linked to the extensive journey and weather conditions.