Intoxicated horseback rider disrupts Georgia Christmas parade, police say

CHATSWORTH, Ga. — A Christmas parade in Chatsworth, Georgia took an unexpected turn over the weekend when police say an intoxicated rider on horseback caused a disturbance, leading to his arrest.

According to a report provided to our newsroom by Chatsworth Police Chief Josh Etheridge, Officer Peden, who was on duty for traffic control during the parade last Saturday, was alerted to a disruption involving a rider identified as Gabrion Carrell.

The incident began when Carrell, reportedly intoxicated, got into an argument with firefighters who were also in the parade, causing the parade procession to halt.

Officer Peden and Deputy Weaver approached the scene and identified Carrell as the source of the disturbance. The police report says Carrell, who appeared to be under the influence, denied his identity when questioned by officers.

Despite multiple commands to stop, the report says Carrell tried to ride off into the sunset, prompting Officer Peden to pursue him on foot.

In a split-second decision, the report says Officer Peden deployed a Taser to subdue Carrell, who was heading toward a crowd of spectators.

The Taser was effective, but the report says Carrell's horse veered, causing him to collide with a 13-year-old girl, who wasn't seriously hurt.

Carrell was taken into custody by Deputy Weaver and charged with disorderly conduct, pedestrian under the influence, and obstructing law enforcement officers.

The report says Officer Peden noted the "overwhelming odor of alcohol" from Carrell, who appeared "incoherent and confused."

The incident caused significant disruption, with officers having to manage an irate crowd of riders and horses. Additional law enforcement units arrived to stabilize the situation.

Carrell was transported to the Murray County Detention Center after refusing a breath sample.

Officer Peden confirmed that the young girl involved in the incident was evaluated and found to have no serious injuries.

The parade resumed after the situation was brought under control, but police say the event highlighted the challenges of maintaining safety during large public gatherings.