Overview

• A Cornell University veterinary pathologist determined on August 6–7 that an adrenal gland tumor caused Lady’s aortic rupture and sudden death.
• The report stated Lady was in good body condition and found no signs of neglect or abuse under New York City’s twice-yearly inspection regime.
• TWU Local 100 released the necropsy findings on August 8, providing the first conclusive medical explanation for the horse’s collapse.
• NYCLASS and PETA held emergency rallies demanding that the City Council advance Ryder’s Law to bar new horse-drawn carriage licenses from 2026.
• Industry representatives maintained that existing veterinary oversight ensures horse welfare and urged lawmakers to uphold current regulations.