A woman required hospital treatment after being kicked in the face by a camel during a festive production at a large church in Texas, with the shocking moment captured on video.
Incident at Christmas Spectacular
The event unfolded at the Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston during its annual 'Christmas Spectacular'. The 90-minute production, described by the church as a 'family-friendly show celebrating the birth of Jesus', ran from December 9 to December 14.
The show is a cherished tradition featuring Broadway-style songs, dance, and special effects. Video footage obtained by Grizzy’s Hood News shows a one-humped dromedary camel being led down an aisle by a handler when it suddenly struck an unnamed female audience member in the head with its left hind leg.
Emergency Response and Church Statement
As the procession continued, other attendees rushed to aid the injured woman before emergency services were called. She was treated for her injuries and later released from hospital, according to local station KPRC.
In a statement to the Daily Mail, a church spokesperson said: 'Champion Forest regrets that this happened.' They confirmed an 'unexpected incident occurred when a camel used in the production struck a guest' and that their team 'responded immediately'.
The church discontinued walking animals within audience seating areas for the remainder of the shows and stated they have remained in contact with the woman's family.
Public Reaction and Animal Safety Concerns
The incident sparked a divided reaction on social media. Some users criticised the use of live animals in a crowded indoor setting. 'Seems like bringing huge animals into a crowded auditorium might be part of the problem. Most live nativities are outdoors,' one person commented on Facebook.
Others expressed concern primarily for the animal, with one writing: 'I hope it wasn't punished in any way for doing something that comes natural.' Dromedary camels can stand over 11 feet tall and weigh up to 1,320 pounds, according to the San Diego Zoo.
However, many defended the church, calling the production 'amazing' and a 'fantastic pageant', labelling the kick a 'freak accident' after years of successful shows.
