MANHATTAN, NEW YORK — New controversy has emerged in the aftermath of the fatal Central Park carriage accident that claimed the life of 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan, as reports suggest a group of carriage horse owners declined to participate in additional health evaluations requested by city officials just weeks before the tragedy.

According to investigation records that have recently drawn public attention, a city veterinarian reportedly sought to conduct independent follow-up inspections involving a dozen carriage horses operating in Manhattan. The proposed examinations allegedly included blood testing intended to identify the possible use of medications and physical evaluations designed to ᴀssess the animals’ mobility and overall fitness.

However, records indicate that the requested follow-up procedures were not completed after all 12 horse owners reportedly declined participation in the additional testing program. The reasons for the refusals have become a subject of growing debate among animal welfare advocates, city officials, and members of the public.

The revelations come as authorities continue examining the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident involving a horse-drawn carriage in Central Park. Investigators are attempting to determine whether any factors related to animal health, supervision, training, or operational practices may have contributed to the incident.

Witnesses reported that the horse involved in the accident suddenly bolted from its expected route and moved onto a sidewalk area before the tragic events unfolded. The incident resulted in the death of Romanch Mahajan and sparked renewed scrutiny of New York City’s horse-drawn carriage industry.

Animal welfare organizations argue that the newly surfaced inspection records raise important questions about oversight and transparency. Some advocates have called for stricter regulations, mandatory independent veterinary evaluations, and expanded monitoring of carriage horses operating within the city.

Supporters of the carriage industry, meanwhile, maintain that operators are already subject to existing regulations and inspections. They argue that conclusions should not be drawn until investigators complete their review and establish the full sequence of events that led to the accident.

The reported refusal of additional testing has nevertheless intensified public discussion. Critics say independent examinations could have provided valuable information regarding the condition of the animals, while others note that no official findings have yet linked the declined tests to the fatal incident.

As the investigation continues, city officials face mounting pressure to address concerns surrounding carriage horse welfare, industry oversight, and public safety. The case has become a focal point in a long-running debate over whether horse-drawn carriage operations should continue in one of the world’s busiest urban environments.

For the family and friends of Romanch Mahajan, however, the primary focus remains the loss of a young life. Tributes continue to be shared across social media as many await answers about the circumstances that led to the tragedy and whether changes in policy or regulation may follow.