Jockey Killed in Racing Accident at Alameda County Fair

By: Brian Shields - Fri, 06 Jul 2012 01:14:04 -0800
PLEASANTON (KRON) -- The horse racing community is mourning the death of a jockey who was killed during the last race of the day Thursday at the Alameda County Fair.

Officials say 33-year old Jorge Herrera was thrown from his horse Morito during the race.  Witnesses say it appears Morito clipped heels with another horse in the $5,000 maiden claiming race.  Authorities believe either Morito or another horse in the race stepped on his head causing severe injuries.

Witnesses say an ambulance that routinely follows the horses around the track stopped and immediately rendered aid.  He was taken to Eden Trauma Center in Castro Valley where he later died.

"We are in shock and sorrow," Alameda County Fair officials said in a written statement.  "The last death of a jockey that occurred at our race track was 37-seven years ago in 1975."

Officials say they hope to establish a tribute that will honor Herrera's life and contributions to racing.

Herrera is a native of Jalisco, Mexico and had won 55 races in his career.

Stay tuned to KRON 4 and KRON4.com for the latest on this developing story.

(Copyright 2012, KRON 4, All rights reserved.)
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