Police horse Navaro survives dramatic embankment fall in Gießen
A mounted police horse, named Navaro, with Germany’s Federal Police fell down an embankment during an operation in Gießen on November 29, 2025. The incident happened while officers were escorting a march near Margaretenhütte Street, close to the city’s train station. Both the horse and its rider escaped without injury. The horse lost its footing after its hind leg became tangled in a fence, causing it to tumble down a steep slope beside the march route. Officers and bystanders reacted quickly, ensuring the animal’s safety. A veterinarian later examined Navaro at a nearby animal clinic. No injuries were found, and the horse was cleared of any lasting harm. Olaf Lindner, the head of the Federal Police in Gießen at the time, confirmed the details of the event. The Federal Police also addressed confusion caused by photos and videos shared online. Officials stated that many of these accounts were misleading or completely false. The incident ended without harm to either the horse or its rider. Navaro returned to duty after the veterinary check, and the Federal Police reiterated the importance of accurate reporting. The force continues to monitor public demonstrations in the area.