Police in Antigua are investigating a violent assault on an American businesswoman who was attacked while offering horseback riding services along Runaway Beach, authorities said.

Multiple sources familiar with the matter said the woman was assaulted near the site of the former Rush nightclub after a man emerged from nearby bushes, pulled her from her horse and beat her. She was later found badly injured, with her horse nearby, and taken to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre.

Due to the severity of her injuries, the woman was admitted as a Jane Doe and later airlifted by medical aircraft to the United States for advanced treatment. She remains in critical condition, according to those close to her.

The victim had recently started a horseback-riding business following a separation from a former partner, sources said.

The attack has raised concern because it reportedly occurred in a popular tourist area. As of Dec. 22, 2025, police had not released details of the incident and said only that investigations are ongoing. No public statements have been issued by the Ministry of Tourism or other authorities.