24-year-old Lance Bombardier Ciara Sullivan, known lovingly by friends as “Sully,” died following a devastating accident at the Royal Windsor Horse Show on May 15. Now, King Charles has issued a heartbreaking response.
Ciara was part of the prestigious King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, a ceremonial military unit famous for its high-speed horseback displays and historic gun carriages.
Moments before the tragedy unfolded, she had been performing in front of members of the Royal Family at the show near Windsor Castle.
According to reports, the young soldier fell from her horse as the troop exited the arena shortly after 7 p.m. Emergency responders rushed to help her, but she sadly died at the scene from her injuries. Police later confirmed the incident is being treated as “unexplained but non-suspicious.”
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But in the days since her death, disturbing new claims have sparked growing scrutiny over the safety of ceremonial horse displays.
Ciara joined the British Army in 2020 and quickly earned a reputation as an exceptional rider and instructor. She had participated in several major royal events, including the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and royal ceremonial salutes.
King Charles breaks silence after soldier suffers terrifying death at royal horse show
According to the Daily Mail, Ciara Sullivan was allegedly dragged under a heavy gun carriage.
In a tribute, her commanding officer described her as “a bright light in any room she entered” and praised her as “an immensely professional soldier and an exceptional jockey.”
Her father shared a touching photo tribute on social media, writing: “The honour. The service. They will never be forgotten.”
Now, Buckingham Palace has issued a response. A spokesperson said, “The King was greatly shocked and saddened to have learned subsequently of the Troop member’s death, and will be in touch with the family to share his personal condolences.
“The thoughts and most heartfelt sympathies of the whole royal family are with the victim’s loved ones and military colleagues at this time of grief.”
Ciara Sullivan joined the army at 18
Per the Ministry of Defense, Ciara Sullivan joined the army at the age of 18.
She trained at the Army Training Center in Pirbright in Surrey, England, before joining the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery in 2021.
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