A teenage girl has been arrested after allegedly stabbing three horses during the 2026 NBHA Professional’s Choice Las Vegas Super Show in Nevada, leaving the barrel racing community shocked and heartbroken.

According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded to reports of an injured horse at a barn near South Las Vegas Boulevard in the early hours of May 30. After arriving at the scene, investigators discovered that three horses had been intentionally injured with a sharp object.

Authorities believe the suspect, a teenage girl who reportedly had access to the barn area, used a knife to wound the animals. Fortunately, officials confirmed that the horses are expected to survive, though their injuries will prevent them from competing in the remainder of the prestigious barrel racing event held at the South Point Arena & Equestrian Center.

Police later located the teen at a nearby hotel and took her into custody. She was transported to Clark County Juvenile Hall and booked on multiple serious charges, including 12 counts related to animal cruelty and three felony counts of malicious destruction of private property valued over $5,000.

The National Barrel Horse Association released a statement saying the situation was handled immediately in cooperation with law enforcement, event organizers, hotel security and all necessary parties. Officials also reassured attendees that there is no ongoing threat to participants, spectators or animals at the event.

Many competitors and horse owners expressed disbelief over the disturbing incident. One young participant described the situation as “scary,” adding that it’s hard to imagine something so violent happening at a major equestrian competition.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue gathering evidence and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the attack.