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Wild video shows crazed animal rights activist smack NYC horse carriage driver in face with skateboard
Police say a 27-year-old woman was arrested after allegedly striking a Central Park carriage driver with a skateboard and punching another driver. The incident matters amid debate over horse-drawn carriages and the safety of workers who operate them.
The woman, identified as Abigail Holbrook of Philadelphia, was charged with two counts of felony assault after Tuesday’s incident near 59th Street and West Drive. A carriage worker union representative called for more visible police patrols at park stands. New York City passed a law last month to ban horse-drawn carriages by 2028, following the death of a tourist who fell from a carriage in July.
In short
- A woman was arrested over alleged assaults on two carriage drivers.
- Police say a skateboard was used to strike one driver.
- New York City plans to ban horse-drawn carriages by 2028.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of the planned ban can argue that horses should not be used for urban rides where traffic, noise and demanding working conditions may put their welfare at risk. The recent fatal fall also highlights safety concerns, and replacing carriages by 2028 could reduce risks to horses, workers and passengers while allowing time to plan alternatives.
The case against
Opponents can argue that a citywide ban may go too far if better oversight and safety measures could address specific risks while preserving a longstanding part of New York’s character. Carriage work also supports workers’ livelihoods, so they may favour targeted protections and a fair transition rather than ending the trade.