The 2021 Crooked River Roundup Horse Races returned after a year off due to the pandemic, but the first evening of the races turned to tragedy.
The Prineville Police Department confirmed the death of one of the jockeys during the very first race of the night on Wednesday.
Online reports suggest the jockey fell off the horse as it veered to the left near the railing.
The races are expected to continue Thursday night.
The Crooked River Roundup released a statement Thursday, which said remaining races were canceled Wednesday night following the tragedy.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of one of our jockeys who was fatally injured while racing on Wednesday July 14,” the statement read.
It said fans immediately started donating their own money as well as refunded ticket money to the jockey’s family, raising $3,500 within an hour.
They will be taking donations at betting windows during upcoming races.
UPDATE: Prineville Police have identified the jockey as 29-year-old Eduardo Gutierrez Sosa.
Capt. Larry Seymour said the jockey was thrown from his horse at around 7:40 p.m. and later died from his injuries.
“Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the family, fellow riders, and friends of the family,” he said.
Prineville Police and the State Racing Board are conducting a joint investigation into the accident.
This is a developing story. We’re working to learn more information.
