Pakistan, May 31 -- A late-night rehearsal for Italy's Republic Day parade turned chaotic in Rome when fireworks startled ceremonial horses, causing panic and injuries. The unexpected incident disrupted preparations and sent dozens of horses running through busy city streets, alarming residents and drivers nearby.

Authorities reported that a traffic policeman set off fireworks without authorization shortly before 11:30 p.m. on Friday. The loud explosions frightened the horses, some of which carried riders while others were being led by handlers during the rehearsal near the ancient Baths of Caracalla.

As a result, around 35 horses bolted onto Via Cristoforo Colombo, a major road in the capital, where motorists recorded the animals gallo...