Prosecutors may request to certify a teen to the adult system after they were arrested Saturday when several horses were found injured inside South Point Casino’s barns, according to 8 News Now sources.

Competitor removed after horse mistreatment incident at South Point Las Vegas event

South Point Casino was hosting the 2026 National Barrel Horse Association’s Professional’s Choice Las Vegas Super Show at the time of the alleged stabbing.

Metro police said the teenager was charged with 12 counts of willful or malicious killing, maiming, or torturing a horse and three counts of felony malicious destruction of private property valued at more than $5,000, according to police.

Sources told 8 News Now investigators that the accused teen is set to appear back in a juvenile courtroom on June 4.

Over the weekend, at least three users on social media posted that their horses suffered stab injuries. One of the alleged victims created a GoFundMeto help out the other victims. The description of the fundraiser described Saturday’s incident as a “brutal attack.”

“The horses are more than just animals. They are partners, family, and a huge part of their lives. What happened was heartbreaking and completely undeserved, and now they need care, treatment, and support to recover,” the fundraiser read.

At least $23,000 was raised as of Monday night for the victims.

8 News Now reached out to each of the alleged victims listed in the GoFundMe, but has not heard back. The victims appear to post regular updates on social media documenting their horses’ recoveries.

The GoFundMe lists Desert Pines Equine Medical and Surgical Center as where the horses are receiving treatment. 8 News Now reached out to the center, but no one was made available to comment on Monday night.

Owner and founder of Horses4Heroes, Sydney Knott, said the entire equestrian community is in disbelief.

“We’re all feeling pretty sad this happened, and that one person felt this was an outlet to let this horrific thing happen,” Knott said.

Although there is no motive as of Monday night, Knott said it’s common to see sabotage incidents at equestrian competitions.

“This is a pretty horrific example. But I’ve heard of tails being cut off to affect the horses performance or judging,” Knott said.

Knott, who works with children, teenagers, and adults, said the community needs to come together to prevent these incidents.

“As someone who’s raised 3 daughters in this community, you have to supervise your kids. Until they are grown and out of the home, you have to be responsible for what they’re doing,” Knott said.