PAMPLONA, Spain—A runner was gored during the traditional Running of the Bulls at Spain's San Fermin festival, authorities said, in the latest serious injury at the annual event that draws thousands of participants and spectators to the northern city of Pamplona.
The injury occurred during one of the festival's morning bull runs as six fighting bulls and accompanying steers raced through the narrow, 875-meter route leading to the city's bullring. Regional health authorities said the injured runner suffered a horn wound and was taken to hospital for treatment, while several other participants were treated for bruises, falls and other less serious injuries.
Officials said the run became particularly chaotic when one of the bulls briefly separated from the herd, causing runners to stumble and pile up along parts of the course. Medical teams stationed along the route responded quickly, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals for evaluation and treatment.
The San Fermin festival, held each July, is best known internationally for its daily "encierro," or Running of the Bulls, in which hundreds of mostly amateur runners attempt to stay ahead of fighting bulls through Pamplona's medieval streets. Participants are advised not to touch the animals, stop suddenly or impede other runners, though falls and collisions are common during crowded runs.
Hospital officials said one of the injured participants sustained the most serious injuries after being gored, while the remaining casualties were treated for trauma associated with falls and trampling. Authorities did not immediately release further details about the condition or identity of the injured runner.
Despite extensive safety measures, including fencing, medical teams and restrictions on participation, injuries occur almost every year during the eight-day festival. According to festival records, 16 people have died in the history of the event, with the most recent fatality occurring in 2009.
The San Fermin festival combines religious celebrations honoring the city's patron saint with concerts, parades and daily bull runs, attracting visitors from Spain and abroad. The event gained worldwide recognition after Ernest Hemingway featured it in his 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises."
Festival organizers said the remaining scheduled bull runs would proceed under established safety protocols, while health officials continued to monitor the condition of those injured during the latest event.
