LAS VEGAS — On May 30, 2026, the National Barrel Horse Association released a public statement addressing an incident involving the willful injury of horses by a competitor at the 2026 NBHA Professional’s Choice Vegas Super Show, held May 29-31 at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
According to the NBHA, the incident occurred during the early morning hours of Saturday, May 30, involving the harming of a limited number of equine athletes by an event competitor. The situation was addressed immediately in coordination with the National Barrel Horse Association, the South Point Hotel and Casino Security, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and all appropriate parties. The individual involved was removed and placed in the care of authorities.
According to a statement released by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department on May 30, LVMPD received a report that a horse had been injured in the 9700 block of South Las Vegas Boulevard. “Patrol officers arrived and learned that three horses had been intentionally injured with a sharp object,” the report read.
The LVMPD Animal Cruelty Section was notified and responded to the scene and through the course of the investigation, detectives identified a teenage girl as a possible suspect. Investigators believe she may have used a knife to inflict multiple injuries to the horses. “While the injuries are not considered life-threatening, they are expected to prevent the horses from competing,” according to the report.
“First and foremost, our thoughts remain with the owners and equine athletes affected by this incident,” the Executive Director of NBHA Bailey Nahrgang said. “The health, safety, and welfare of our horses and members always remain NBHA’s highest priority. Our goal early on with the initial press release was to communicate promptly, responsibly, and in accordance with the information and guidance available from responding authorities at that time, while avoiding speculation regarding facts that had not yet been confirmed. Since the incident occurred, NBHA has remained in communication with the affected parties and has continued to cooperate fully with Las Vegas Metro PD, South Point Security, and event veterinarians. We are grateful for the swift response of all parties involved, with special mention to the South Point management and staff who went above and beyond to accommodate our needs and offer a wide array of aid.”
Detectives located the teen at a nearby hotel and took her into custody. According to the LVMPD press release she was transported to Clark County Juvenile Hall, where she was booked for 12 counts of Willful/Malicious Kill/Maim/Torture Animal — Horses and three counts of Felony Malicious Destruction of Private Property over $5,000.
“As many are now aware, law enforcement continues to investigate this matter. Out of respect for that process, NBHA will defer questions regarding the investigation, evidence, motive, charges, and other related matters to the appropriate law enforcement agencies,” Nahrgang said. “We understand the concern, emotion and questions this incident has generated throughout the barrel racing community. We share those concerns. The alleged actions involved in this incident are deeply troubling and stand in direct opposition to the values of horsemanship, sportsmanship and respect for our equine partners that are foundational to our organization.
“Our focus will remain on supporting the affected horse owners, ensuring the well-being of our competitors and horses, and cooperating fully with the appropriate authorities. We appreciate the professionalism, patience, and support shown by our members, event staff, veterinary professionals, facility personnel, and the broader barrel racing community during this difficult time,” Nahrgang continued. “It is tragic that an incident such as this occurred, but the amount of unity and compassion we have seen shared from far and wide reminds us that the barrel racing community is far stronger than any single act meant to harm it. In difficult moments, our members consistently demonstrate what makes this sport special is our deep love for our horses, unwavering support for one another, and a commitment to standing together when it matters most.”
Competitors Identify Their Horses Publicly
Via social media, three competitors whose horses were involved have spoken publicly about the incident.
In a public social media post, Hailey Krahenbuhl identified her horse Saaul Good (“Sully”) was among the horses injured. “Sully was stabbed multiple times last night. I have no words, he is stitched up and in recovery,” Krahenbuhl wrote.
Keira Weisbart also posted in a public social media post that her horse “Rocket” was injured as well. “Rocket was stabbed three times, and had attempted stab attempts around his body. He is okay and stitched up and will make a full recover,” Weisbart wrote.
Arielle Phillips posted on May 30 in a public post as well that her horse “Detail” was among the injured. According to Phillips’ post she had been sitting with her mare in the stall until 12:02 a.m. She was notified several minutes later of the alleged stabbing, returned to the stalls where she found her mare injured and bleeding. According to her post at 12:30 a.m. she was able to get the mare veterinarian care. She then sat with investigators until 3:00 a.m. according to her post.
