San Francisco Woman Arrested for Horse Tail Tugging Incident that Injured Child Rider

Authorities in Daly City, near San Francisco, confirmed the arrest of a 29-year-old woman named Tomasa Panjojleon, in connection with an incident where a child was injured after being bucked off a horse. The situation unfolded at Thornton Beach Recreation Area during a riding lesson held at Ocean View Stables on February 23.

Police stated that Panjojleon approached the horse from behind and deliberately pulled its tail, startling the animal and causing it to rear and eject the young rider. The victim, a five-year-old boy, experienced bruising and an injury to his right ankle as a result of the fall. Officers noted that Panjojleon fled the scene before they arrived, prompting an investigation that ultimately led to her identification and arrest on suspicion of felony child endangerment.

The child's cousin, Alexandra Fuerte, publicly shared details about his injuries and recovery, highlighting doctors' orders for him to avoid walking for at least a week. Additionally, Fuerte emphasized that a protective helmet likely prevented the boy from suffering a concussion. She described the actions of the suspect as particularly cruel toward both animal and child.

A video posted on social media by the family visibly captured the incident, showing an individual running up behind the horse and pulling its tail forcefully, causing the animal to rear. Afterward, stable staff quickly intervened and calmed the horse to prevent further injuries. Another young rider present during the event, who was the victim's cousin, reportedly remained uninjured.

According to the barn manager at Ocean View Stables, Caroline Read, the horse named Zeuss also suffered injuries due to this incident. She clarified that the event occurred while younger riders were engaging in a short introductory ride designed to familiarize them with horseback riding. Contradicting the family's depiction, Read mentioned the boy briefly continued riding afterward and that the family declined medical attention immediately following the accident.

In her statement on social media, the victim's mother, Mary Fuerte, expressed concern about the lasting impact of the incident on her son, reporting that he was limping and experiencing back and nose pain, alongside heightened fearfulness. Authorities and local organizations continue to investigate further details surrounding this incident.