On Wednesday July 26, the first night of the 2017 Ohio State Fair, tragedy struck. While the “Fire Ball” carnival ride was operating on the evening of the 26th, the sudden and loud sound of cracking metal rang through the fairgrounds, and a large piece of the ride snapped loose and crashed to the ground, throwing riders through the air and onto the ground. One rider died upon hitting the ground, while at least seven others have suffered critical injuries.
While it remains to be seen what caused this incident, this may be the result of inadequate inspections during limited time, due to inclement weather during the days leading up to the fair. Investigations are underway and the rides at the fair have been closed for the time being.
Unfortunately, patrons are injured while engaged in recreational activities like rides at the fair. Whether the cause is negligence on the part of ride operators, manufacturers, or inspectors, a tragedy like this should be avoidable and the injuries are an unspeakable tragedy.
Our sympathies go out to the families of the injured and deceased fairgoers.
For additional and up to date information, please see the article published by the Columbus Dispatch.