Jockey Dies After Falling Off Horse At Alameda County Fair
PLEASATON (CBS SF) – A jockey was thrown from his horse and killed in a race at the Alameda County Fair on Thursday.
Jorge Herrera, 33, was racing in the final race of the day at the fairground's racetrack in Pleasanton, when he fell from the thoroughbred "Morita" around 5:15 p.m., according to a spokeswoman for the Alameda County Fair.
Morita or another horse was believed to have stepped on Herrera's head, causing severe head trauma.
Racetrack paramedics treated Herrera at the scene before transporting him to Eden Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
"We are in shock and sorrow," fair organizers said in a statement. "Our heartfelt sentiments go out to his family."
KCBS' Tim Ryan Reports:
Officials said the last jockey to be killed at the Alameda County Fair was Juan Gonzalez in 1975.
The Alameda County Fair, which is marking its 100th anniversary this year, began on June 20th and continues through Sunday.
Condolences can be left on the fair's Facebook and Twitter accounts, organizers said.
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